By Joe Ephraim, Calabar
A political support group, Grassroots Initiative for Otu/Odey 2027, has formally launched a statewide mobilisation campaign aimed at rallying support for the re-election of Cross River State Governor, , and his deputy, , ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
At a press briefing in Calabar on Thursday, the Founder and Director General of the group, , said the movement was born out of “extensive consultations and a shared commitment to sustaining progressive leadership” in the state.
He described the initiative as a people-driven platform designed to mobilise support across communities, polling units, and political divides, with a central message of continuity, stability, and sustained development.
“Citizens across our state are speaking with one clear voice: they want continuity of purpose, stability in governance, and sustained development that improves their daily lives,” he said.
The group called for a broad-based consensus among political parties, stakeholders, and citizens to support the Otu/Odey ticket for a second term (2027–2031), arguing that such alignment would reduce political tension and consolidate ongoing development efforts.
Friday emphasised that the call for consensus was not rooted in partisanship but in what he described as “demonstrable performance, impact, and service delivery.”
According to him, Deputy Governor Odey has shown “loyalty, dependability, and steadfast commitment,” providing strong support to the governor and contributing to what he termed a “functional and productive leadership partnership.”
The group cited key achievements of the current administration, including the recovery of Tinapa Business and Resort from the control of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) after 14 years, describing it as a major step toward revitalising the state’s economic assets.
It also pointed to ongoing infrastructure development, improvements in traffic management and public lighting, reforms in the transport sector, and initiatives in agriculture and education as indicators of progress under Governor Otu’s leadership.
Friday noted that these efforts have gained national recognition, referencing recent honours awarded to the governor, including Silverbird Man of the Year and The Sun Governor of the Year.
“These recognitions reflect leadership that delivers results and inspires confidence in governance,” he said.
The group commended the contributions of the Chief of Staff to the Governor, , for strengthening coordination and service delivery.
It also recognised the role of , Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties and political leader of the initiative, for his grassroots mobilisation efforts.
In addition, the group lauded the First Lady, , for her social intervention programmes and community support initiatives, describing her contributions as complementary to government efforts.
The initiative announced plans to embark on sustained grassroots engagement, including town hall meetings, sensitisation campaigns, and consultations with various interest groups, including youth organisations, women’s groups, civil society, and traditional institutions.
It also signalled openness to engaging opposition parties in dialogue aimed at building consensus for the 2027 election.
“We will continue to consult, engage, and mobilise across all communities to ensure that every voice contributes to shaping our shared future,” Friday said.
While advocating political support, the group urged citizens to prioritise unity and peaceful engagement, cautioning against divisive politics.
It appealed to stakeholders across
he state, including those in the northern senatorial district, to pursue their political interests with “wisdom, tolerance, and a sense of brotherhood.”
“Unity in purpose brings strength; consensus in leadership brings progress; and collective support brings prosperity,” Friday stated.
The launch marks an early mobilisation effort ahead of the 2027 election cycle, with the group positioning itself as a key advocate for continuity in Cross River State’s leadership.
