Follow Us on Google
The Chief of Staff to the Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River, Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, has commended him for honouring four of his predecessors.
Commending Governor Otu for the lighting of the Christmas tree and award night at the Millennium Park, Eleven Eleven Roundabout, Calabar, Ironbar said, “The governor’s gesture is a reflection of his essence. He is a man who is an inclusive leader, a unifier and a builder.’
As a commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the Calabar Carnival, Governor Otu hosted an event honouring former Governors Clement Ebri, Donald Duke, Liyel Imoke and Ben Ayade, alongside unveiling of statues and presentation of prestigious service awards to them.
Other News
Dr. Ironbar, who said he was moved by the rare convergence of past and present leadership, described the occasion as “a historic crescendo of unity,” noting that never before in the political history of Cross River State had four former governors sat under one canopy to be collectively recognized. “This is not just another ceremony. This is a monumental affirmation of gratitude, orchestrated by a governor whose generosity of spirit is simply unmatched,” he said.
The Chief of Staff praised Governor Otu for what he called “a towering gesture of statesmanship,” insisting that the governor had demonstrated a leadership philosophy rooted in humility, reconciliation, and institutional respect.
“His Excellency has shown today that true greatness celebrates greatness. What we see here is a cathedral of legacy, erected by a man who understands that the past is a partner, not a rival, of the present. Governor Bassey Otu has today inscribed his name boldly in the chronicles of Nigerian political maturity. This is the kind of magnanimity that inspires nations and strengthens democracies. To bring four former governors together, harmoniously, joyfully, respectfully, is an achievement of extraordinary moral intelligence. His Excellency has shown the rare courage to transcend political divides and celebrate continuity. Today proves that when a leader leads with love, history bows in admiration. Governor Otu has lit a torch of brotherhood that will illuminate this state for generations,” he said.
The ceremony closed with embraces, handshakes, and a sense of collective renewal, sealing a day widely regarded as one of the most defining political moments in Cross River State’s recent history.
