In an open letter addressed to Governor Otu and signed by over 30 members and stakeholders of the organisation
By Frank Ulom
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Published on July 28, 2026
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3 min read
The Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP), Cross River State Chapter, has called on Governor Bassey Otu to adopt a more inclusive approach to governance, alleging that the coalition of political parties has been sidelined in the affairs of the state despite its contributions to democratic development.
In an open letter addressed to Governor Otu and signed by over 30 members and stakeholders of the organisation, the group expressed concern over what it described as the continued exclusion of the CNPP from meaningful consultation and participation in governance processes in Cross River State.
The signatories said the CNPP had over the years played a significant role in promoting democratic values, political accountability, constructive opposition and issue-based governance, stressing that the coalition remained committed to the progress and development of the state.
According to the letter, many residents expected the current administration to provide opportunities for all legitimate stakeholders, including political parties outside the ruling structure, to contribute ideas that could enhance governance and development.
The group argued that democracy thrives when governments engage not only supporters but also constructive critics, adding that excluding recognised political stakeholders could weaken participatory governance and limit access to alternative perspectives capable of improving policy formulation and implementation.
The signatories also recalled the support allegedly extended to Governor Otu during the 2023 governorship election, claiming that the CNPP endorsed his candidacy and mobilised support for his election.
“His Excellency could remember that the CNPP endorsed and supported him roundly during the first-term elections and unveiled a one hundred thousand voters register in support,” the letter stated.
While expressing concern over what they described as a growing perception of exclusion, the group maintained that its interventions on public issues were not aimed at undermining the administration but at promoting accountability, transparency and effective service delivery.
The coalition urged the state government to establish regular consultations, policy dialogues and institutional partnerships with the CNPP and other critical stakeholders as part of efforts to strengthen democratic participation and public confidence in government.
“We respectfully urge your administration to embrace a more inclusive approach by engaging the CNPP and other critical stakeholders through regular consultations, policy dialogues and institutional partnerships,” the letter read.
The signatories further appealed to Governor Otu to demonstrate statesmanship by opening channels of engagement with opposition parties and other democratic actors in the state.
They noted that their collective objective was to contribute to building a stronger, more prosperous and inclusive Cross River State for present and future generations.
The open letter was signed by Paddy Ally, Pastor Anthony Bassey, Bishop Kelly Abason, Chris Eyibio, Kenneth Egbuge, Anthony Essien, Charles Ogbu, Chris Ashabe, Isoh Henry Ekpenyong, Elizabeth Esu, Jolly Odey, Victoria Ekpenyong, Ojong Arthur, Victor Harrison, Regina Hogan, Lawrence Asuquo, Martin Bujor, John Onagha, Bassey Francis, Effing Ekanem, Eno Enang, Aidam Ikey, Offiong Eyo Okon, Ben Henshaw, Obi Stive, Emmanuel Effing, Victor Effiok, Michael Brown, Godwin Anake, Nkanu Ledul, Stella Enu, Ekpo Bassey, Gift Oqua, Nelly Bassey and Precious Osang on behalf of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties, Cross River State Chapter.
As of the time of filing this report, the Cross River State Government had not issued an official response to the concerns raised in the letter.
