Ibok announced his decision in an official political declaration, where he directed his supporters across the 18 Local Government Areas and 196 wards of the state to collapse their structures and mobilize for the re-election of Governor Otu.
By Staff Reporter
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Published on September 21, 2026
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2 min read
African Democratic Congress, ADC, Chieftain and former Chairman of Labour Party in Cross River State, Austine Ibok, has endorsed Governor Bassey Otu for a second term in 2027.
Ibok announced his decision in an official political declaration, where he directed his supporters across the 18 Local Government Areas and 196 wards of the state to collapse their structures and mobilize for the re-election of Governor Otu and his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
According to him, his decision followed wide consultations with family, political associates and supporters and was based on conviction, political realities and the collective interest of the state.
He cited the absence of cohesion, equity, justice, fairness and sincerity within his party, particularly in the handling of zoning and other critical leadership decisions, as reason for his exit from the opposition.
Ibok said his endorsement of the Otu administration was informed by visible leadership and measurable achievements, including improvement in security through crime reduction, sustained investment in critical infrastructure, determined pursuit of the recovery of Cross River’s oil wells and the strategic advancement of the Bakassi Deep Seaport Project.
“Our support is driven by performance, political reality, and the collective desire to secure a brighter future for Cross River State through effective and purposeful governance,” he stated.
The former opposition stakeholder further disclosed that in the coming weeks, he will formally unveil a formidable political movement with coordinated structures from the ward level to a central headquarters in Calabar, strategically organized to deliver victory for the APC in 2027.
He added that his position on the presidential candidate and other elective offices will be communicated at the appropriate time.
