By Solomon OKPO
A pressure group, the Cross River Rebirth Alliance, has declared its intention to mobilise voters across the state to unseat Governor Bassey Otu in the 2027 general elections, citing what it described as a prolonged decline in governance and economic fortunes.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by its Coordinator, Elder Bassey Christopher Bassey, and Secretary, Comrade Callistus Imong, the group expressed dissatisfaction with the current administration, accusing it of worsening conditions inherited from previous governments.
The alliance said it had monitored developments in Cross River State over the past 11 years and concluded that urgent action was needed to “rescue” the state from what it termed systemic decay.
According to the group, the downturn began during the administration of former governor Prof. Ben Ayade, whom it accused of prioritising “unrealistic projects and empty promises” over tangible development.
It, however, commended the administrations of former governors Donald Duke and Senator Liyel Imoke, noting that they laid a solid foundation for growth, particularly in tourism and infrastructure, which has since deteriorated.
The group alleged that Governor Otu’s administration has failed to reverse the downward trend, instead deepening hardship among residents.
“It is painful that rather than build on past gains, the state has continued to regress. What we have witnessed in the last three years is increased poverty, hardship, and a lack of direction,” the statement read.
The alliance further criticised what it described as the governor’s focus on religious activities over governance, alleging that state resources and attention were being diverted from critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, and job creation.
It also raised concerns over transparency in public finance management, deteriorating environmental conditions, and the state of rural infrastructure, particularly in hard-to-reach communities.
Drawing comparisons with other states, the group noted that areas once considered less developed had made significant progress, while Cross River, once a leading tourism destination, had declined.
The alliance announced plans to commence statewide mobilisation across the 18 local government areas, aimed at sensitising residents and galvanising support to vote out the current administration in 2027.
“The 2027 election presents an opportunity for the people to reclaim their state. We are committed to ensuring a rebirth of Cross River through collective action at the polls,” the statement added.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official response from the state government regarding the allegations.
