NIGERIA: Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Nigeria Diaspora Business Network (USA) and the Pillars of Equity have announced a “Mega Rally” scheduled for April 4, 2026, aimed at mobilising support for the “good works” of Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and the Senator representing the Southern Senatorial District, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Calabar on Monday, the Director of Finance for Pillars of Equity and team lead, Mr Kenneth Etim Thamos, called for a media partnership to broadcast the group’s message of “reward for more work” as the 2027 election cycle approaches.
Grassroots Mobilisation
The group, which has been active since late 2022, credited its grassroots mobilisation for the current administration’s success in the state. Etim emphasised that the decision to return to the field is based on “tangible, positive differences” seen in Cross River.
“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,” Etim stated.
Governor’s Achievements
He lauded Governor Otu’s achievements across multiple sectors, specifically citing economic reforms, the establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship, and the revitalisation of the state’s security apparatus.
“The security apparatus has been rejigged because results are at least, you and I can sleep and have less concern,” Etim noted, adding that the restoration of tourism landmarks like Tinapa and the Obudu Ranch Resort remains a priority for the administration.
Philosophy of Equity
In his remarks, the Secretary General of Pillars of Equity, Mr Effiom Bassey, explained the philosophy behind the group’s name, stating that they stand for “justice, fairness, and the truth,” which in 2023 meant returning power to the Southern Senatorial District.
“Turn by turn is equity. That’s why we are called Pillars of Equity,” Bassey explained. He further highlighted the Governor’s commitment to human capital, notably the release of N10 billion to clear a decade-long backlog of gratuities for retirees.
“His Excellency saw the plight of our mothers and our grandmothers and decided to release 10 billion naira to clear up gratuities from 2009 to 2016. That’s a kudos to him. It’s what others could not do,” Bassey added.
Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Praised
The group also showered praise on Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, describing him as the “Star Boy” of the Senate. They cited his role in driving the South-South Development Commission bill, his scholarship interventions, and his personal supervision of the Calabar-Itu road construction, which has significantly reduced travel time to Uyo.
Furthermore, the group acknowledged the facilitation provided by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that federal policies like the Student Loan Fund and exchange rate harmonisation are beginning to “trickle down” to the state level.
Rally Aims
They stated that the upcoming rally at Atu Primary School is expected to serve as a platform to encourage Governor Otu and Senator Ekpenyong to “do more” and to officially begin the journey toward the 2027 general elections.
“Let’s join together and make the journey for 2027 a lot less cumbersome than it was in 2023,” Etim concluded, while urging the public to support a leadership that “understands the job.”
