Otu extends hand of fellowship to Onor
From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
The Governor of Cross River State Bassey Otu has extended a hand of friendship to the 2023 People’s Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in the state, Professor Sandy Onor.
The governor has offered to work with him to move the state forward.
The governor made the offer while formally reacting to his victory in the Federal Court of Appeal Lagos Division in a petition against his election by the PDP candidate.
The governor said his victory at the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, on Wednesday, November 22 should bring to a close election litigation over the governorship as it is a clear indication of the people’s mandate and overwhelming support Cross Riverians gave to him at the election.
According to the governor in a statement made available by his Chief Press Secretary, Emmanuel Ogbeche, “The ruling of the Court of Appeal today is a welcome development and affirms that we were overwhelmingly voted in by the people on March 18, 2023.
“This ruling should bring an end to litigation on the outcome of the governorship election. For those in the opposition, especially my brother, Prof. Sandy Onor, I once again offer you a hand of friendship. Come and join my administration so that together we can move our state forward and bring about the dividends of democracy”, the governor said.
The governor also assured the people of the state that his administration is on track to reposition the state for effective and responsive governance.
He also sought the support a d patience of the people to navigate the challenging times and build the state of the dreams of the people.
“My administration is fully re-energised to deliver on the People First Mandate, which is on track to repositioning our state for effective and responsive governance.
“I solicit for the support and patience of all Cross Riverians as we navigate the challenging times towards the Cross River of our dream.
“Let me reassure all our citizens that we are working round the clock to ensure that we deliver the best governance for our people.
“It is important also to note that preparations are in top gear for a robust and successful Calabar festival, while we continue to address other socio-economic and developmental issues,” the Governor stated.
Gov Otu was declared winner of the polls by INEC having polled over 258,000 votes to defeat his closest rival, Senator Sandy Onor of the Peoples Democratic Party, who garnered about 179, 000 votes.
