The Obol Lopon of Ugep, Obol Ofem Obongha, has declared that the March 2 governorship election is a no contest for Governor Ben Ayade, given his record of achievements in just three and half years.
Accordingly, he said there is no need for Ayade to campaign, but, rather, roll out drums and start celebrating his return to Government House, Calabar.
Obol Obongha said this, yesterday, at his Umor Otutu palace, Ugep, Yarkurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, when the governor paid him homage to solicit the support of the people, ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.
“We are not here for campaign, but to celebrate our governor. Ayade is not a politician because politicians don’t keep to their words. Our governor, here, has passion for his people, and each time he says he wants to do a particular thing, he ensures he does it and does it well.
“Ayade has restored peace through the strengthening of security in the community. He has also ensured the Institute of Technology and Management (ITM- Ugep) is back in full swing,” he said.
Other achievements recorded by Ayade, according to Obol Lopon, include the “employment of over 600 workers into the Ugep Urban Development Authority, asphalting of the Ikpaka pit road and, like he also promised, today, he has brought electricity to Ugep.”
Obol Obongha further added: “The generators you brought to Ugep are superior to what we used to enjoy from Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos), not excluding the number of our sons and daughters you have offered appointments. We have not had it so good like this. Truly, the governor has given us a sense of belonging.”
On how the governor was able to achieve these feats, in spite of the lean federal allocation, and without any indebtedness, the Obol Lopon said: “President Buhari was even surprised about how you do all these after his two visits to this state, to see the giant strides on ground; so, I ask, what is the magic?
Earlier, Governor Ayade informed the monarch that he was in his territory to pay homage as well as solicit support from the Yarkurr people as the forthcoming election draws nearer.