… Faults critics, cites infrastructure gains as C’River Rediscovered inducts him into BOT
The Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, has said Senator Bassey Edet Otu remains focused on delivering tangible results rather than seeking publicity, citing ongoing infrastructure projects and development interventions across the state as evidence of an administration committed to service.
Agbor stated this on Wednesday in Calabar while receiving members of the Cross River Rediscovered Team, who formally inducted him into the movement’s Board of Trustees (BOT) in recognition of his contributions to transparency, accountability and prudent management of government assets.
The Asset Recovery Adviser also faulted critics of the Otu administration, arguing that many of their attacks stem from prejudice and misinformation rather than an objective assessment of the government’s performance.
According to him, roads, community lighting projects and other critical infrastructure initiatives executed under the People First agenda have continued to impact lives across the state, even in instances where completed projects were not accompanied by elaborate commissioning ceremonies.
“Governor Otu’s administration is focused on service and results, not media frenzy. Across the state, roads have been constructed, communities have been illuminated, and critical projects have been completed without fanfare. This shows a government that is serious about improving the lives of its people and believes that its achievements should speak louder than publicity,” Agbor said.
He maintained that Governor Otu has demonstrated uncommon commitment to development through strategic investments in infrastructure, public services and community development, adding that the administration’s achievements are visible across the state.
Agbor took a swipe at critics of the present administration, stating that many of their comments and attacks were driven more by resentment and preconceived bias than by an informed understanding of government activities.
He advised those who routinely criticize the government to undertake proper background checks and acquaint themselves with the facts surrounding government policies, programmes and achievements before embarking on what he described as vindictive campaigns.
According to him, constructive criticism remains an essential ingredient of democracy, but such criticism must be informed, objective and motivated by the desire to advance the public good rather than personal animosity or political bitterness.
The Special Adviser also commended the Wife of the Governor, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, for complementing the administration’s efforts through humanitarian interventions and empowerment programmes that have continued to impact women, vulnerable groups and families across the state.
He further charged political appointees and government functionaries to serve as effective ambassadors of the Otu-led administration by maintaining close engagement with citizens, communicating government policies and programmes effectively, and conducting themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the government.
Responding to the honour, Agbor expressed gratitude to the leadership and members of the movement, describing his induction into the Board of Trustees as a call to greater responsibility and service in the collective quest to advance the development of Cross River State.
He assured the group of his support and readiness to contribute meaningfully to initiatives that promote good governance, accountability and sustainable development for the benefit of present and future generations.
Agbor reaffirmed his commitment to advancing accountability, prudent asset management and responsible governance, pledging to continue collaborating with stakeholders to promote sustainable development and protect public assets in Cross River State.
Earlier, Director-General of the Cross River Rediscovered Team, Barr. Paul Ishabor, said Agbor’s induction into the Board of Trustees was informed by his integrity, wealth of experience and unwavering commitment to public service.
He described the Special Adviser as a principled legal practitioner and diligent public servant whose stewardship in asset management and recovery has strengthened accountability, improved institutional record-keeping and enhanced the protection of government assets for the benefit of Cross Riverians.
Ishabor noted that Agbor’s track record in public service aligns with the vision and aspirations of the Cross River Rediscovered movement, making him a worthy addition to its leadership structure.
According to him, the movement remains committed to identifying and partnering individuals whose contributions to governance and development have positively impacted the state.
By Kingsley Agim
