Governor Bassey Edet Otu has reaffirmed his administration’s strong commitment to the full recovery of Cross River State’s assets, describing the ongoing drive as a vital pillar in restoring the state’s economic strength and rebuilding public trust.
Speaking during the 7th State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting of the year, held on Wednesday at the Council Chambers of the Governor’s Office in Calabar, Governor Otu commended the Special Adviser on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, for what he termed “focus and painstaking efforts” in reclaiming government-owned properties.
“The total recovery of our state assets is in steady progress,” the governor declared. “In this connection, let me thank and highly commend the Special Adviser on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, for his resilience, dedication to duty, and passion to deliver on his mandate. His work has opened our eyes to hitherto hidden but treasured assets belonging to the state. You don’t need to look too far to know who is performing. Well done, Barr. Agbor.”
He also appreciated the contributions of Cross Riverians who have provided valuable information leading to successful recoveries.
“In light of these successes,” Governor Otu continued, “we shall immediately establish asset recovery committees in all 18 Local Government Areas. These committees will be empowered to identify, document, and recover all state assets — including land, buildings, movable and immovable properties — wherever they may be located.”
The governor explained that the move will decentralize and accelerate the recovery process, ensuring that no part of the state is left behind in reclaiming what rightfully belongs to the people of Cross River.
Public affairs observers have lauded the Otu administration for its transparency and proactivity in governance, particularly in asset recovery — a sector that has long been shrouded in opacity. The effort is expected to not only restore lost value but also deter future misappropriation of state property.
Barr. Agbor, who has led a series of investigative and enforcement missions, recently submitted a damning report exposing widespread encroachment on lands belonging to institutions such as Government College Ikot Ansa, the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), and others. His office has also uncovered numerous cases of fraudulent asset acquisition involving collusion between private individuals and compromised officials.
With the new directive, local government areas will now take a more active role in ensuring that every public asset — visible or concealed — is tracked, reclaimed, and secured for the benefit of the state.
The Otu-led “People First” administration continues to prioritize accountability, institutional reform, and responsible resource management as key cornerstones of its governance strategy.
