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Tag: Edem Darlington

  • How Gov Bassey Otu Convinced FG to commence work on Calabar section of the Lagos–Calabar coastal highway

    How Gov Bassey Otu Convinced FG to commence work on Calabar section of the Lagos–Calabar coastal highway

    By Edem Darlington

    On Sunday, April 6, 2025, the Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi announced his ministry’s readiness to commence construction at the Calabar section of the Lagos – Calabar Coastal Highway. The minister made the announcement in Lagos during a stakeholders engagement.

    A few days before that announcement, Sen. Umahi had confirmed that 30 kilometers of the road, starting from section one would be ready for inauguration by President Bola Tinubu by May 29, 2025.

    The coastal highway from the Cross River State axis covers a total of 130km road network, traversing several communities.

    Before the modification, the road was supposed to have passed through communities like Ikoneto, Ekpri Adiabo, Ifako Okoyong and the rest.

    However, with the current modification on the road, it is expected that it would terminate somewhere around Awi in Akamkpa Local Government Area.

    The modification may not be unconnected with governor Bassey Otu’s proactiveness   owing majorly to his visionary leadership and determination to end the persistent frustration of Cross Riverians along the Calabar-Itu Road. That determination prompted the governor to begin the Adiabo-Eseku-Ikoneto road from the Tinapa end. Work is currently ongoing at the site and nearing completion.

    That singular action led to the achievement of two cardinal things.
    First, it proved a point to those who did not want the Calabar -Itu Road to work to have a rethink that Cross River  now has a new leadership that priotizes the welfare of her people

    Secondly, determined to ensure that the people of the State were not sidelined in the scheme of things, especially regarding infrastructural projects as important as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal road, the governor began very early to engage major stakeholders with the aim of ensuring that the project commenced simultaneously from the Lagos and Calabar ends of the important highway.

    On September 22, 2023, while welcoming the Minister of Works in his office in Calabar, Governor Bassey Otu appealed to the federal government on the need to commence the Calabar section of the coastal highway so as to make the progress of work faster as well as create a sense of belonging to the people of the State.

    The minister was at the time in the state to inspect the pilot concrete road project along the Calabar-Itu Road.

    “Let me commend Mr. President on his landmark project, especially the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway which is soon to begin and at the same time solicit that while work is soon to commence at the Lagos axis, the Calabar section of the road should also be considered so that the work can progress with the speed of light and create employment and business opportunities to our people “ Governor Otu stated.

    Not satisfied, the governor intensified efforts with several visits to Abuja, the seat of power, where he engaged with key stakeholders and actively lobbied influential authorities.

    Impressed by the governor’s persistence and  love for his people, the President, through the Ministry of Works at a stakeholders meeting in Calabar, announced the approval for the commencement of  work at the Calabar section of the road.

    In a rapid response, governor Bassey Otu on January 1,  2024, immediately applauded President Bola Tinubu for his directive to commence work on the Calabar axis of the road as well as approval for construction of Calabar Ebonyi – Benue- Kogi – Nasarawa – Abuja super Highway as the major signature projects of his administration.
    In an appreciation letter dated Ist January 2024, Governor Otu observed that section 3A of the project traverses eleven communities in the state with a total length of 130 kilometres, while a portion of the Calabar-Ebonyi- Benue – Kogi – Nasarawa -Abuja Superhighway also fall within Cross River state.

    He said the two projects would go a long way to improve the connectivity and accessibility thereby boosting economic activities in the region towards enhancing the living standard of the People. Governor Otu also lauded the president’s dedication to nation Building.

    “I most profoundly felicitate Your Excellency for your administrations interventions in the critical sectors of the economy. Thank you for your dedication to nation-building. Please accept, Your Excellency, my highest regards and that of the good people of Cross River State,” the governor concluded.

    In June 2024, during the All Progressives Congress (APC), South South regional meeting held in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, Governor Bassey Otu again openly appreciated President Tinubu and pleaded with the federal government to consider commencing work at the Calabar section of the coastal highway in other to give the people of the state a sense of belonging.

    Present at the meeting were notable sons and daughters from the region, including the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, former Deputy Senate President, Omo Agege etc.

    The announcement of the eventual flag-off of the Calabar section of the coastal highway scheduled to hold on the 14th of April, 2025 is the climax of efforts by a hard working governor who blends love for his people with effective political lobbying for the overall good of his state.

    His competence, effectiveness as well as resourcefulness as a leader of the APC at the national level is never in doubt. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also understands the importance of having a resourceful individual as Governor Bassey Otu as a strategic member of his party and as such, have tried to play politics of inclusivity with all regions of the country.

    As the official flag-off of the Calabar axis commences tomorrow, Cross Riverians are expecting that the same effort, consistency and push that the Lagos axis is experiencing will be given to that of the Calabar section.

    Congratulations to the people of Cross River and congratulations to governor Bassey Edet Otu, the people first governor.

    Edem Darlington is the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State.

  • Think Cross River felicitates Governor Otu’s Chief of Staff, says his leadership inspires culture of service, dedication

    Think Cross River felicitates Governor Otu’s Chief of Staff, says his leadership inspires culture of service, dedication

    The Think Cross River group has felicitated the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar on the occasion of his birthday.

    The group in a statement signed by its initiator, Mr Edem Darlington and made available to the Paradise News Friday, says the Chief of Staff has inspired a culture of service and dedication, which will continue to benefit the state and its people.

    The statement reads;

    “We at the Think Cross River group warmly extend our felicitations to you on this special occasion. As the Chief of Staff to our dear Governor, your dedication and leadership have continued to shape the trajectory of governance in our dear state. Little wonder, your recent recognition as the Best Chief of Staff in Nigeria at the National Leadership Awards did not come as a surprise.

    “Your commitment to public service and your role in enhancing the machinery of state have significantly impacted the development landscape in Cross River. Your proactive approach and vision have motivated the Governor’s team to strive for excellence, aligning with the “People First” agenda of this administration. You have inspired a culture of service and dedication, which will continue to benefit the state and its people.

    “As you celebrate this special day, we wish you continued success, wisdom, divine health and strength to carry on the responsibilities bestowed upon you by His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

    “May your birthday be filled with joy, love and the appreciation of those whose lives you have touched through your service. We value and cherish you as you continue to Think Cross River in all you do.

    “Happy birthday once again, Sir.”

  • Think Cross River Group Congratulates Gov Otu’s Chief of Staff over National Leadership Award

    Think Cross River Group Congratulates Gov Otu’s Chief of Staff over National Leadership Award

    The Chief of Staff to Cross River governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar has been lauded for his effective inter-personal and managerial skill that has engendered a stable political atmosphere in the state.

    The commendation followed the recognition of Hon. Ironbar as the best Chief of Staff in Nigeria at the National Leadership Award organized by The People’s Parliament Nigeria in Abuja, recently.

    Mr Edem Darlington, Director General of the Think Cross River group, in a statement, described the award as deserving and a call for greater responsibility and service to the state.

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    “When you carefully study the person of the Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar and the way he manages people and resources, you will agree with me that he is indeed a round peg in a round hole. The award is a recognition for his hard work.

    “Hon. Ironbar at every point in time, put in his best to manage issues around the governor. The versatility he brings to bear on his job as the governor’s top aide makes him stand out. His carriage, temperament and wisdom in handling crisis is inspiring.

    “This is why we are celebrating him and also praying that God should give him more grace, wisdom and understanding to continue to assist the governor in delivering the People First mandate,” Edem stated.

  • Nkot Mbok: Think Cross River Group Commends Gov Otu for his proactive security approach

    Nkot Mbok: Think Cross River Group Commends Gov Otu for his proactive security approach

    …Says move in the best interest of C’River

    The initiator of the Think Cross River group (TCRG), Edem Darlington has commended the Cross River State governor for his security approach and modern policing initiatives in the State.

    Mr. Darlington made the commendation while speaking with selected journalists in Calabar the state capital.

    According to him, the emergence of governor Bassey Otu has brought peace and tranquility tnot just to the state capital but the entire Cross River.

    His words, “We were all here in this state when kidnappings, arson, ritual killings and all manner of crime were being perpetuated sometimes in broad day light.

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    “At one point, Cross River State was rated as one of the most dangerous places to visit in Nigeria. We moved from being the most peaceful state to one of the most unsafe places in Nigeria.

    “No one was spared, our medical doctors repeatedly kidnapped, a situation that prompted the leadership of the NMA at the time to go on strike each time one of their members were kidnapped.

    “Even water leaf sellers and petty traders were kidnapped and as low as five thousand was collected as ransom. Those were the issues the governor met in ground. But today, the reverse is the case.

    “The governor since assumption of office has had countless security meetings, provided  security officers with modern equipments to fight all forms of crime and criminality in the State. I think the governor deserves commendation for returning our state back to a peaceful and secured place,” Edem noted.

    Mr. Darlington who is also the deputy chief press secretary to the governor, used the opportunity to clear the air regarding the recent cancellation of a cultural parade, Nkot Mbok. Insisting that the cancellation was done in the best interest of the State.

    “No one in the State have access to the level of security information that the governor has. So if intelligence gathering points to the fact that a particular event will lead to chaos were lives and properties could be lost, what a good leader and father will do is to be proactive and nip the issue in immediately. It is my sincere opinion that the government should rather be commended.

    “If you look at the recently released Nigeria security report for 2024, you will realize that Cross River State made significant progress in terms of peace and security stability and that means that we are  gradually taking back our place as the safest and most peaceful state in the country.”

    The Think Cross River initiator used the opportunity to call on young people in the State to continue to pray for the peace of the state as no meaningful development can thrive in an atmosphere of chaos and violence.

  • C’River Govt accelerates work on Adiabo-Ikoneto road abandoned by FG 33 years ago

    C’River Govt accelerates work on Adiabo-Ikoneto road abandoned by FG 33 years ago

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Work is progressing rapidly on the 10-kilometer Adiabo-Ikoneto road abandoned by the Federal Government 33 years ago. The single carriage road project initiated in 1992 by the late Sani Abacha regime was to halve the travel time from Calabar to Akwa Ibom and also multiply the entry point to the state capital.

    Speaking shortly after an inspection tour of the ongoing project by the Think Cross River Initiative and a team of journalists on Monday, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Ankpo Pius, explained that the project was awarded to Zenith Construction Nigeria Limited in 2024.

    He said the 10km road starts from the Tinapa bridge area and would terminate at Ikoneto. According to the Commissioner, the project would include construction of two major bridges and a realignment of the road.

    “The major challenge we have there is the swampy area. The place need to be filled and allow to cure and set. That’s why we don’t have a definite timeline for the completion. It’s a huge project. We have about 4 or 5 kilometer to sand fill to about 3 to 5 meters of depth. The filling there is massive considering the terrain which is watery. In the next three or four months we should be able to complete the filling, and then open the road for motorists to drive on to allow it settle before we bring in laterite and fill it until we get to the level we want.

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    “I want to commend the Governor for this great initiative. This goes a long way to settle the issue of the state having one way in and one way out. This road will be another way to change that narrative. This government is committed to putting quality infrastructure in place for the benefit of Cross Riverians. Upon completion, the project will reduce the travel distance from Calabar to Odukpani by 30 kilometer,” he said.

    Hon. Ankpo disclosed that Prince Otu-led administration since assumption of office has initiated about 100 kilometers of road projects across the state of which 45 to 50 percent have been completed. He noted that the government was working on completing several projects initiated by the previous administration, adding that recently approval has been secured for the construction of flyovers at Mobil-MCC and Effioete Roundabout.

    Commenting on the Adiabo-Ikoneto road project, the initiator of Think Cross River, Mr Edem Darlington, said the road traverses and connects several communities such as Adiabo, Creek Town 1, Creek Town 2 and terminates at Ikoneto.

    He recalled that the road which was supposed to be completed by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), was abandoned over the years, thus prompting the state government to take up the project as a response to the cries of commuters who ply the deplorable Odukpani-Itu road.

    Darlington who is the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, explained that the Adiabo-Ikoneto road would bypass failed portions of Odukpani-Itu road and thereby shorten the distance between Calabar and Akwa Ibom. He said the agony Cross Riverians were going through as a result of the parlous state of the Odukpani-Itu road cannot be quantified, which is why the governor in his compassionate nature had stepped in to remedy the situation.

    The Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Mr Andrea Ekeng Inyang and the Special Assistant to the Governor on Communication, Mr Nathan Otaba, also took part in the tour.

  • Bakassi Deep Seaport Gradually Becoming a Reality – Edem Darlington

    Bakassi Deep Seaport Gradually Becoming a Reality – Edem Darlington

    The Bakassi Deep Seaport, a potentially viable economic fortune staring right at the faces of Cross Riverians, nay Nigerians is gradually becoming a reality. With the ongoing hydrographic, geotechnical, and geophysical survey, the dream of the coastal state, South – South Nigeria becoming a major maritime evacuation corridor is gradually unfolding.

    At a recent event at the Calabar jetty of the Nigerian Navy, the hydrographic, geotechnical, and geophysical survey for the Bakassi Deep Seaport was flagged off by the State governor, Sen. Bassey Otu. That important milestone signaled a critical and crucial phase of birthing the port.

    Over the next three months, huge Nigerian Navy vessels, will be stationed offshore, employing modern techniques to study the waters in order to ascertain that large vessels expected to dock at the port will not encounter any form of difficulties. A primary objective of the survey is to obtain data necessary for creating nautical charts, which show water depths, navigation channels and coastal structures, serving as essential tools for mariners. To make it even more simple, let us do an elementary analysis of what these processes involves.

    What is a Geophysical survey ?

    This is the study of the earth’s physical properties and environment using physics. Geophysicist, those vested with the knowledge of the study, use a variety of methods to collect and analyze data, gaining insights to understand the earth’s subsurface.

    What is Geotechnical survey?

    This is the study of how soil and rock behave in engineered systems. As a branch of civil engineering, it applies the principles of soil and rock mechanics to address engineering challenges. They play a key role in industries like oil and gas, mineral extraction, and geothermal energy

    What is Hydrography?

    It is the science that measures and describes the physical features of bodies of water and the land areas adjacent to those bodies of water. Surveying with multibeam echo sounders is the primary method of obtaining hydrographic data.

    The Cross River State government have received commendations for engaging the services of the Nigerian Navy to carry out this important process. Apart from the fact that it is economically prudent, the Nigerian Navy boasts of very competent personnel who have successfully carried out similar projects in other countries.

    Why is the Bakassi Deep Seaport important to the Nigerian Maritime and the Oil and Gas sector?

    For several years, Nigeria, despite being the largest oil-producing nation in Africa and the 16th largest in the world continues to bunker oil vessels outside the shores of the country. Bakassi Deep Seaport will put an end to that, with an impressive depth of about 17ft below the seas, it’ll be the deepest Seaport in the country with modern facilities that will encourage easy and seamless maritime activities at the port.

    It is believed that the completion of the different surveys will allow for effective commencement of the actual physical construction.

    One we can pray that the good policies and programs of the governor receives the blessings and cooperation of the federal government so as to bring the Bakassi Deep Seaport to a reality for the general good of the people.

    Edem Darlington is the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State.

  • THINK CROSS RIVER: Presidency to honour Gov Otu DCPS, Edem Darlington, others for community leadership

    THINK CROSS RIVER: Presidency to honour Gov Otu DCPS, Edem Darlington, others for community leadership

    Initiator of the Think Cross River initiative, Edem Darlington will be honored by the presidency for his efforts in community engagement and leadership according to a statement by the senior special assistant to the president on community engagement, Gift Jumbo.

    The award, “Community  Visionary Leadership”  according to the statement is as a result of Mr Darlington’s incredible and massive community engagement initiatives of which Think Cross River is one of them.

    “On behalf of the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-South), Nigeria, I am pleased to inform you that you have been nominated to receive an award in the category “COMMUNIITY VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AWARD” at our upcoming event titled: “Road to South-South,” the statement reads.

    The event which is billed to take place at the banquet hall of the presidential villa is scheduled for tuesday,  10th  December, 2024.

    Amongst those also listed for the award include the Cross River State Governor, Sen Bassey Otu who will receive an award for Excellence in Public Governance and former governor Donald Duke who will be honored for his pivotal role in the promotion of Cultural Heritage.

    The event brings together stakeholders from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, creating a national platform for dialogue, unity, and collaboration. According to the organizers, the goal is to foster understanding among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups, strengthen partnerships across regions, and address the unique challenges and opportunities within the South-South region.

    Edem Darlington who is also the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the governor of Cross River River state is honoured for his contributions which have been recognized as instrumental in advancing the ideals, aligning with the vision of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for a united and inclusive Nigeria.

    “In acknowledgment of your dedication and consistent leadership prowess, an award will be presented to you in recognition of your commitment to building the Nigeria of our dreams in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the statement concluded.

    Edem Darlington is a journalist and communication strategist who has worked as brand manager for major brands across the country and outside Nigeria.

  • Odukpani Chairmanship Seat: Edem Darlington Best Prepared, Most Acceptable

    Odukpani Chairmanship Seat: Edem Darlington Best Prepared, Most Acceptable

    As Cross Riverians continue to anticipate the conduct of local government elections in the state, and with the State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) further stating that elections will hold before the end of December, 2024, permutations are rife as to who is most prepared, deserves to or should occupy the plomp position in the third tier of government across the 18 councils of Cross River State.

    In Odukpani local government area, names like Edem Darlington, Governor Bassey Otu’s Deputy Press Secretary (from Ikoneto ward), Etim Asido, a former councillor and secretary of the Governor’s family (Otu Mesembe House – Adiabo), Bassey Inyang, a Public Affairs Manager with Lafarge Africa PLC, Mfamosing Plant, and Eyo Nsa, have all been touted to be aspiring for the chairmanship position.

    Even a cursory look at the the aforementioned aspirants individuals records shows has laid bare who is better prepared for the position and more acceptable by the masses as well as those who are merely seeking political attention and/or swimming against the political tide.

    Etim Asido’s aspiration for chairman has already hit the brick wall being that he is the governor’s cousin. Political pundits have predicted that the odds are against him, knowing that Governor Otu will not want to be accused of nepotism where his direct relatibe becomes chairman of council.

    Inyang Bassey, here, has been termed a featherweight among them for being largely unknown by the political class nor the vast majority of Adukpani citizens. He has been perceived in some circles as crafty, braggadocios and self-centered, lacking the pulchritude of such ambitious office.

    In Elder Eyo Nsa’s case, concerns are being raised over his allegiance to forces working at cross-purposes to the government of the day, with a lot of people wary of him rocking the leadership boat should he be given the chairmanship opportunity. Nsa who belongs to the old political stock, also seems too elitist and lacks the acceptability of the other political actors in the area.

    Edem Darlington, the youthful, vibrant and farsighted Deputy Press Secretary to the Governor that is enjoying massive acceptability across all segments of the Odukpani masses. His tentacles, having blossomed in the private, and later heading the association of online journalists, sector before becoming an integral part of the governor’s virile media team.

    Coming from Ikoneto political ward, which is to produce the next Chairman, according to the gentleman’s zoning arrangement of Odukpani LGA, stands Edem in good stead to take the position. Having worked with the governor on a daily basis since the pre-election days until now, Darlington understands the Otu-led administration’s policy direction, especially to drive development in the grassroots. His mental alertness, humility, friendly disposition and progressive mindset pitches him above every other aspirant to the Chairmanship position of Odukpani LGA.

    Edem Darlington’s prospects for taking the Odukpani Chairmanship seat are looking promising, considering his experience and initiatives. As the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to Cross Rivers Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, Edem Darlington has become a  totem in promoting the state’s tourism potentials and business opportunities. His brainchild, the “Think Cross River” phenomenon has deepened advocacy for patriotism, unity, and social justice, which resonates with both the government and the citizenry.

    Some of his notable strengths include:

    – Leadership Experience: As Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Edem Darlington has likely gained valuable experience in governance and administration.
    – Community Engagement: His role as Chairman of the Association of Cross River State Online Journalists (ACROJ) demonstrates his ability to engage with the community and promote local development.
    – Vision for Progress: Edem Darlington’s initiatives suggest he has a clear vision for the state’s progress and is committed to promoting social justice.

    While we all expect the best for our LGAs, I wish to beckon on all sons and daughters of Odukpani to realize that the expected best can and is palpably visible in their leading Chairmanship aspirant, Edem Darlington. Let us give him the opportunity to replicate the same hard work he is putting in the media management of the governor’s activities, policies, programmes and projects in our dear Odukpani local government area.

    K. A. O. Etta, writes from Calabar, the state capital.

  • Think Cross River: We want to bring back the spirit of patriotism in our dear state – Edem Darlington

    Think Cross River: We want to bring back the spirit of patriotism in our dear state – Edem Darlington

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The initiator of Think Cross River, Mr Edem Darlington, has said that the initiative seeks to reignite the spirit of patriotism among Cross Riverians, while also galvanizing support for the government in its effort to deliver good governance to the people.

    Darlington stated this at an interactive session with journalists in Calabar on Wednesday.

    He maintained that Think Cross  initiative is a major advocacy tool for the government to promote the rich tourism potential, and as well as highlights various business and investment opportunities available in the state.

    Beyond this, the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Governor affirmed that at the core of the Think Cross River initiative embedded the message of patriotism, love for one another, prosperity, collective responsibility and social justice for all.

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    According to him, “If you are patriotic, you won’t take up arms against your neighbour. If you are Thinking Cross River there is no way you will see something going wrong around your neighbourhood and you won’t call the security agents. If you are Thinking Cross River, there is no way you will see someone trying to enter your neighbour’s house and you won’t call the police. We are just trying to promote peace, promote unity, promote peaceful coexistence.”

    “It is no news that Cross as a state has a very friendly people. We are naturally very hospitable; and so that is the very first attraction for any serious business or investor. And then too, for a long while we have remained the most peaceful state in the country; and so naturally, Cross River is the darling of every investor who actually wants to put his money and make real gains from it. So this tool is to promote everything about Cross River, and also, very importantly, to call on all Cross Riverians to join hands with the governor, our dearest sweet prince, Senator Prince Bassey Otu and promote what he is doing, support the current administration and also promote everything that has to do with Cross River State.

    “It is a tool to unite Cross Riverians, so whether you are from Cross River or you are living in the state, it doesn’t really matter, but the fact that you are doing business or living here means that you are a Cross Riverian and our governor will always say that. Think Cross River is a tool to unite us as a people and ensure that we are all part of what the government is doing by way of protecting government facilities around your locality, ensuring that you reach out to security agents whenever you see anything going wrong in your area and ensuring also that we keep our environment clean because everything cannot be about government.

    “We as a people, we are also part of what government is doing. We are also part of government. So the actual responsibility must begin with us. It must begin with us. Think Cross River is a tool to galvanize all forms of support for the current administration and even beyond this current administration.

    “However, we also have a way, we are planning on reaching out to some persons by way of promoting what we are trying to do.

    “For example, if a neighbour is there and doesn’t have a job, you can actually reach out and say, okay, what business can we do? We have plans like that and we take from all of this, you know, from our little contributions amongst us. For me, if we remain at peace, if we love ourselves, if we support what the government is doing, then it is good enough. That for me is very important than any other thing,” he emphasized.

    Darlington also used the opportunity to commend governor Bassey Otu for his giant strides in infrastructural development, payment of gratuity to pensioners and ensuring relative peace and security in the state.