The Muslim community in Bakassi Local Government Area has expressed its appreciation for the efforts made by Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, which have transformed the once volatile region into a peaceful and habitable environment.
This recognition comes at a pivotal time as the State focuses on the importance of community cohesion and coexistence among its diverse religious groups.
Alhaji Dan Bala, the leader of the Muslim community, conveyed these sentiments during a visit from a team representing the Department of Religious Matters, Governor's Office to interact with Faith-based organizations in the area, Thursday.
The delegation was led by the Special Adviser on Religious Matters, Apostle Frank Umo, an initiative designed to enhance relations with Faith-based organizations across all 18 Local Government Areas in the State.
Alhaji Bala also lauded the Chairman of Bakassi Local Government Area, Hon. Effiong Okon, for effectively uniting various community interests since he took office.
He promised to mobilized his community members to support the State’s programmes and policies actively, reinforcing the values of unity and collaboration among residents.
In his remarks, Chairman of Bakassi, Hon. Okon took the opportunity to thank Governor Otu for the ongoing infrastructural and social amenity improvements in the area.
He stated his commitment to ensuring that the rural dwellers also experience the benefits of the "people-first" governance philosophy of Governor Otu aimed at uplifting all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status.
Hon. Okon highlighted various intervention programmes that have significantly improved the local standard of living and effectively engaged the once-restive youth population.
He announced that after enduring nine years without electricity, Bakassi was now reconnected to the National grid, a development he attributed to the governor's commitment to enhancing living conditions in the area.
The Chairman also assured the visiting team of his administration's readiness to collaboration with faith-based organizations, while also ensuring the replication of the State's organized quarterly Solemn Assemblies that have fostered unity and society engagement in the past.
Apostle Frank Umo, the Special Adviser on Religious Matters, while addressing the assembled crowd in both Bakassi and Akpabuyo Local Government Areas, elaborated on the significance of their tour, which started in the northern senatorial and aims to unify and integrate Faith-based organizations into the governance framework.
He further disclosed that the exercise is promoting inclusive governance in alignment with the Governor's mantra of prioritizing the people.
Umo commended the local council chairmen for their swift renovations of the council headquarters, which had been significantly disrupted by the EndSARS protests.
He made a passionate plea for local leaders to ensure their communities receive tangible benefits from democracy.
During the tour, Umo emphasized the importance of collaboration between religious leaders and governmental authorities to foster an environment of tolerance and mutual respect. He reiterated that building bridges among different faith communities is vital for maintaining peace, especially in areas with a history of conflict.
Faith-based leaders echoed Umo’s sentiments, recognizing that a united front among diverse religious groups in Bakassi was crucial to maintaining stability and enhancing living conditions for all.
They expressed their determination to work hand-in-hand with the government to develop programmes targeted at addressing the unique challenges faced by the community.
As the meeting concluded, both the Muslim community and local government officials voiced their shared commitment to promoting peace, security, and development in Bakassi, conveying a strong message of solidarity and readiness to collaborate for a brighter future.
The various Faith-based organizations in the areas visited were poised to take actionable steps in enhancing inter-community relations and ensuring that the dividends of democracy are felt by every citizen in the region.
