By Peter Omopo
Political leaders of the (APC) in Cross River State have resolved to mobilise no fewer than 1.5 million votes for President in the 2027 general elections.
The resolution was reached during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting convened by Governor at the Calabar International Convention Centre.
The meeting was attended by the immediate past APC National Women Leader and Minister, , members of the National Assembly from the state, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, party executives, youth and women leaders, and other stakeholders.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Otu appealed to President Tinubu to support efforts to reclaim Cross River’s oil wells and restore the state’s full littoral status. He urged the Federal Government to rely on verified reservoir coordinates and existing technical reports to validate the state’s claim to oil-producing status.
The governor also called for the restoration and increase of federal appointments for indigenes of the state, saying this would enable them to benefit more directly from the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and strengthen grassroots mobilisation ahead of 2027.
Otu reaffirmed the state’s alignment with the President’s policies, citing ongoing federal collaborations that have supported infrastructure development, including the Calabar-Lagos Coastal Highway. He described the enlarged meeting as an opportunity to appreciate party faithful for their unity and to prepare for future electoral contests.
He also commended Betta Edu for her loyalty and commitment to the party and the state.
Speaking separately, Dr Edu called for intensified grassroots mobilisation, inclusive engagement, and sustained voter education in preparation for the next election cycle. She urged residents of Cross River to remain supportive of President Tinubu, expressing confidence that the benefits of the Renewed Hope Agenda would reach all citizens.
Edu backed the governor’s appeal for presidential intervention to restore Cross River’s economic standing, including its littoral and oil-producing status, following reports of the discovery of over 100 oil wells in the state’s estuary.
According to her, the 2027 elections would require coordinated efforts across wards and local government areas to consolidate previous gains and prevent setbacks.
Lawmakers from the state, including senators and members of the House of Representatives, also pledged to intensify mobilisation efforts across their constituencies.
The stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to delivering what they described as a decisive mandate in 2027 in support of President Tinubu and Governor Otu’s anticipated second-term bid.
