The Kalakuta Republic, a socio-political group led by Comrade Stephen Oru Egbe in Etomi, Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, has declared its support for Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s bid for a second term, pledging sustained grassroots mobilisation for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The group made its position known during a political gathering in Etomi, where it unveiled a billboard in support of Governor Otu, describing the initiative as a public expression of confidence in his leadership and a desire for continuity of his administration’s programmes and vision.
Speaking during the event, the group, under the leadership of Comrade Stephen Oru Egbe, said political support must go beyond words and be demonstrated through organisation, peaceful mobilisation and responsible participation in the democratic process.
It urged its members and supporters to remain united, peaceful and disciplined, while reaffirming its commitment to Governor Otu and the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.
The sociopath-political group also used the occasion to recognise the Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, decorating him as its Grand Patron in recognition of his leadership, commitment to the people and support for the organisation.
The group presented Agbor with a portrait as a symbol of appreciation, loyalty and solidarity, expressing confidence in his ability to provide direction and inspiration to its members in his new capacity.
Receiving the honour, Agbor expressed profound gratitude to the leadership and members of Kalakuta Republic, describing the recognition as both an honour and a responsibility.
He said the honour had heightened expectations of greater service, assuring the group that, as Grand Patron, he would provide the necessary direction and support to strengthen the organisation.
Agbor commended the group for its grassroots mobilisation efforts and attributed recent political developments in the area, including the defection of opposition members to the APC, partly to the commitment of its members.
As a demonstration of his support, Agbor announced an immediate financial contribution of N500,000 to Kalakuta Republic, assuring members that their activities and efforts would receive his continued support.
He urged the group to sustain its political engagement and mobilisation, stressing the importance of conducting politics without bitterness and promoting unity among members and supporters.
Also speaking, the Ward Chairman, Roderick Itafu Abang, commended the young people behind the initiative, describing their decision to honour Agbor and demonstrate solidarity with Governor Otu and the APC as a positive contribution to grassroots political participation.
Abang encouraged the group to remain committed to its political activities and continue to support the Governor, expressing optimism that the efforts of members would yield positive results.
The event ended with renewed pledges of solidarity for Governor Otu, the APC and the political mobilisation efforts of Kalakuta Republic across Etomi and Etung Local Government Area.
By Kingsley Agim
