By Mary Bassey, House of Assembly Correspondent
The Honorable Minister of Sports Development, Senator Owan-Enoh; the Speaker of Cross River State House of Assembly, Honorable Elvert Ayambem and the Senator representing the Cross River Southern Central District at the 10th National Assembly – Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong Jrn, have rolled in congratulations to the Governor of the State, Senator Bassey Otu on his recent Supreme Court judgment, upholding his March 2023 election victory.
The trio gave their felicitations in separate messages, where they averred that his victory at the Apex court is a true testament to the people’s will.
The Supreme Court Nigeria had on Friday, January 12, 2024, affirmed Governor Otu’s victory against his challenger, Senator Sandy Onor.
The Minister of Sports Development Owan Enoh in a statement shared on X, formerly known as Twitter said the victory is for the good people of Cross River State and democratic consolidation and brings to an end the lingering litigations.
“This landmark judgment is a victory for the good people of Cross River State and democratic consolidation. Significantly, it has finally laid to rest, litigations that trailed your election and cast a pall in the governance of our State.
“It is therefore with satisfaction that I join millions of our people and friends of the State to felicitate with you for this emphatic and decisive victory.
“My sincere hope is that the end of all litigation will pave the way for the unencumbered governance of the State and strengthen your hand to deliver democratic dividends to our people.
“Be rest assured your Excellency of my continued unflinching support for your government now and in the years ahead.”
The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Elvert Ayambem said the judgment upholds the principles of free and fair elections; ensuring that the voice of the people prevails.
“The Supreme Court’s decision highlights the significance of our democratic institutions. It upholds the principles of free and fair elections, ensuring that the voice of the people prevails.”
The Speaker expressed hope that Governor Otu and Deputy Odey will continue to lead Cross River State to see substantial growth and advancement.
“In the past month, various distractions sought to divert the Governor’s focus from the important work at hand. Today’s (yesterday) judgment brings clarity, and the people of Cross River State can expect a positive turnaround in their fortunes,” the Speaker added.
Similarly, the Senator representing the Southern Senatorial district in the Nigerian Senate, Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong on his Facebook handle lauded the Supreme Court and Otu’s legal team for the judgment in ensuring justice prevailed and the democratic will of the electorate was upheld.
“I extend my hearty congratulations to Governor Bassey Edet Otu on his resounding victory at the Supreme Court, solidifying his position as the duly elected Governor of Cross River State.
“I also express my profound joy as the highest court affirms the mandate bestowed upon Governor Otu by the people of the State. I commend the resilience and commitment of the legal team that navigated the intricate legal process, ensuring justice prevailed and the democratic will of the electorate was upheld.
“In the wake of this triumph, Governor Otu’s leadership is poised for continued success in steering Cross River State toward prosperity.
“The Supreme Court verdict not only reinforces the legitimacy of Governor Otu’s mandate but also serves as a testament to the enduring strength of democratic institutions,” he said.
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