The Mbube Nation in Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State, under the aegis of Liluom ê Mbe, on Saturday held a grand thanksgiving and solidarity rally in appreciation of ongoing infrastructural development and economic empowerment in Mbube and the state at large.
In his welcome address at the event, which took place at St. Columbus Primary School, Idum Mbube, the Chairman of the Central Committee, CP Gabriel Achong (Rtd), said the rally was unanimously convened to celebrate and formally endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He noted that the impactful and people-oriented governance of the trio, as well as their visible achievements and commitment to development, informed the decision of the people to publicly declare their support and endorse their return in 2027.
In furtherance, Achong revealed that the rally was largely organised to commend the Deputy Governor, a son of Mbube, for his supportive role to the Governor and his contributions, which have positively influenced development and strengthened ties between the government, the Mbube communities, and beyond.
In his address, the President General of Liluom ê Mbe, Prof. Tony Eyang, reaffirmed the unity and political progress of the Mbube Nation, describing the emergence of Rt. Hon. Peter Agbe Odey as Deputy Governor in 2023 as a historic milestone for the people.
He commended Governor Otu for his commitment to Mbube, recalling his visit to the community shortly after assuming office and the ongoing rehabilitation of the Mbube-Ogoja Road. He also appreciated the inclusion of Mbube indigenes in key positions within the state government.
While expressing gratitude, Prof. Eyang highlighted pressing needs of the area, including the need to curb illegal logging, reconnect Mbube to the national grid, rehabilitate public schools, commence the Mbube East-Utugwang-Obudu Road, and establish a polytechnic to cater to the growing number of students from the area.
Responding on behalf of the President, Governor, and Deputy Governor, Chief Dr. Peter Ojie lauded the organisers and people of Mbube for their show of love and solidarity. He commended Governor Otu’s administration for its extensive infrastructure drive across the state, particularly in Mbube.
He noted that the administration has given Mbube a pride of place in its development agenda under the “People First” mantra, assuring the people of its commitment to completing ongoing projects in the area.
Chief Ojie further urged the people to remain steadfast in their support for President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections, noting that the President has taken steps to stabilise the national economy, tackle insecurity, and advance critical infrastructure development across the country.
Highpoint of the event was the formal endorsement of the President, the Governor, and his Deputy for a second term in office. The motion was moved by Chief Patrick Agida and seconded by Hon. Sunny Achang, Deputy Leader of the Ogoja Legislative Council and Councillor representing Mbube East Ward 1, and was unanimously adopted through a voice vote by the people. A one-minute silence was also observed in honour of the tragic loss of UNICROSS students and staff.
The rally, which featured rich cultural displays, traditional music, and traditional dance performances, creating a festive, carnival-like atmosphere, was attended by the Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Hon. Chris Agbeh, Member representing Ogoja State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Hon. Engr. Thomas Aruku, political stakeholders; traditional leaders, youth and women groups, as well as supporters from across Mbube communities.
