Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State
Why I’ve not touched C’River local govt funds in seventeen months – Gov Otu
Ani Bassey
The Cross River State governor Senator Bassey Otu has given reasons why funds accruing to the 18 local government councils in the state have been untouched.
The governor said he believes that the state requires substantial funds to invest in a legacy project that holds immense benefits for the people.
He said one is these legacy projects is investing in the aviation sector and acquisition of four new aircrafts which the eighteen council areas in the state have shares.
The governor disclosed this during the state caucus meeting of his party recently held to announce a list of his party’s flag bearers for the November, 2 local government elections.
“During my tenure as Governor for over a year, the local government allocations have remained untouched.
“I believe the state required the substantial funds to invest in a legacy project that holds immense benefits for the people.
“One of these legacy projects is the recent investment made by the state in acquiring four new aircraft to enhance flight operations for Calabar routes that have experienced frequent flight cancellations.
“The investment in the airline operations currently operating as Cally aircraft under a lease agreement with Aero contractors airlines.
“All the 18 local government councils hold equity shares in the new airline operations the state has invested in.
“Share certificates will be presented to each elected council chairman, and an expert management team led by a managing director with extensive experience in airline operations has already been secured.
“The management team will ensure efficiency in the airline operations and will provide regular updates to the shareholders, including the state and the local government councils”,the governor said.
The governor, whose statement was made available by his Chief Press Secretary, Nsa Gill emphasized the significance of development-mindedness, compassion for humanity, and inclusivity in the governance of the local government councils.
He underscored the necessity for the incoming local government officials to prioritize the welfare and development of their constituents above personal interests.
