Gov. Ben Ayade of Cross River has said that his performance in the last three years stands out as a strength in his bid for reelection in March.
He also said that the principle of rotation of governorship among the senatorial zones of the state makes it expedient for the residents to maintain the tradition.
At a rally in Yala local government area on Wednesday, Ayade expressed fulfilment on the way the welfare of residents had been captured during his three years in office.
He said that there was massive political appointments for youths, recruitment of teachers and nurses amongt others in the state in under to improve on the living standards of the people.
“I know I have done a lot by appointing 6,000 appointees, engaged 2,500 teachers and 1,000 nurses among others, but surely I will know no sleep until everyone of you here gets a job.
“This is the turn of northern Cross River, both south and central have had their different eight years as governors, the north must be allowed to complete their eight years too,’’ he said.
The governor disclosed that the Okpoma water project in Yala has been completed among other projects aimed at alleviating the pains of the people.
The Paramount Ruler of Yala Local Government Area, Chief Godwin Denis-Odu, said the people of Yala have decided that Ayade must go back to government house to complete his performance.
“We are the oracle, we have spoken that our son must return, so shall it be,’’ he said.
Also, a stalwart of the All Progressives Party (APC) and a former governorship aspirant, Dr Julius Okpotu, said Ayade deserves a second term on account of his sterling performance in office.
“Ayade’s support base cuts across party lines, even members of the APC will work to get him re-elected.
“I am here because of the good works of Governor Ayade. He has worked tirelessly to change the story of Cross River. His re-election therefore, will be a smooth sail,’’ he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Okpotu had decamped to the People’s Democratic Party during the rally.
At the Ogoja local government township stadium, thousands of party faithful, support groups, youths, traders as well as various social groups came out in their numbers to receive Ayade.
The governor assured the people that his second term in office would be better and urged the people to come out en mass and vote for him on March 2.
Chanting solidarity songs, the enthusiastic crowd, in appreciation of Ayade’s developmental strides, vowed to protect their votes for the governor’s return. (NAN)