By Nsan Ndoma-Neji, Calabar
About 5,000 supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, faithful are to converge at Mayne Avenue by Atu Primary School, Calabar for a mega rally on April 4, 2026, in support of the re-election of the governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Otu and Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong in 2027.
The mega rally is being organized by the Nigeria Diaspora Business Network, USA and Pillars of Equity with the aim of mobilising support for the duo as the 2027 election cycle approaches.
Director of Finance of the Pillars of Equity, Mr. Kenneth Etim, disclosed this to journalists yesterday at the Ernest Etim Bassey Press Center Calabar, during a press briefing, soliciting media partnership to amplify the group’s message of “Reward for more Work.”
Etim said, “We are coming to seek your partnership, to report this amazing information to people out there that this event is going to take place by 10 o’clock in the morning on Saturday, 4th of April, 2026, at Atu Primary School.”
He praised Governor Otu’s achievements, citing economic reforms, the establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship, and the revitalization of the state’s security apparatus.
He added, “The security apparatus has been rejigged because results are at least, you and I can sleep and have less concern for now.
“The restoration of tourism landmarks like Tinapa and Obudu Ranch Resort remains a priority for the administration.”
Secretary General of the Pillars of Equity, Mr. Effiom Bassey, explained the philosophy behind the group’s name, stressing that the governor has done a lot in the area of infrastructural development, among others and as such deserves a second term.
He said, “Turn by turn is equity. That’s why we are called Pillars of Equity,” highlighting the governor’s commitment to human capital development, notably the release of N10 billion to clear a decade-long backlog of gratuities for retirees.
The group also praised Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, describing him as the ‘Star Boy’ of the Senate, citing his role in driving the South South Development Commission, SSDC bill and his scholarship interventions.
They also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s facilitation of federal policies benefiting the state.
The rally is expected to encourage Governor Otu and Senator Ekpenyong to “do more” and officially kickstart the journey toward the 2027 general elections.
The Secretary General said, “Let’s join together and make the journey for 2027 a lot less cumbersome than it was in 2023.”
