Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has officially sworn in Egbung Odama as the substantive Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area. The ceremony, held on 5 January 2026, marked the end of a prolonged leadership crisis in the council and set the tone for governance in the new year.
Governor Otu's Charge for Grassroots Service
Addressing attendees, Governor Otu extended New Year greetings and emphasized the critical role of local government administration. He described it as the tier of government closest to the people and fundamental to grassroots development. The governor highlighted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) prioritizes effective local governance due to its direct impact on communities and livelihoods.
Otu commended party leaders and stakeholders for managing the transition in Bekwarra peacefully, praising their maturity in preserving unity. He delivered a clear message to the new chairman, stating, "Position is not given for you to exert power or become an emperor. Position is for you to serve the people." He framed leadership as a call to responsibility, compassion, and accountability, particularly towards society's most vulnerable.
Confidence in New Leadership and Economic Vision
The governor expressed strong confidence in Egbung Odama's capacity to deliver, citing his experience, character, and steady performance while acting in the role. He described the new chairman as a product of due process who understands governance from the ground up and has earned public trust.
Governor Otu also revealed that Bekwarra remains central to the administration's economic vision for Northern Cross River. He assured that ongoing and future initiatives are designed to reposition the area for sustainable growth and shared prosperity. Otu called for sincerity of purpose, seriousness in governance, and a collective commitment to development from all stakeholders.
Egbung's Pledge of Dedicated Service
In his response, the newly inaugurated Chairman, Egbung Odama Egbung, expressed profound gratitude to God for the milestone. He assured the people of Bekwarra and Cross River State of his readiness to serve diligently and responsibly.
Egbung described the new year as one of renewed energy and purpose, urging residents to prepare for hard work and collective progress. "Leadership to me simply means service," he declared, adding that his life has been dedicated to serving others, a principle he vows to continue as council chairman. He stressed that the time for complacency is over, signaling a new era of active governance for the local government area.
