CALABAR, Nigeria – With the inauguration of Prince Bassey Otu as governor of Cross River State less than a week away, the planning committee is yet to receive funds necessary for the grand ceremony, according to the committee’s chairman.
Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, former Senate leader and Chairman of the inauguration committee, remains hopeful that the funds will soon be released.
Ndoma-Egba, voiced his concerns and hopes on Monday, May 22, 2023, during Sparkling FM’s flagship morning talk show, ‘Let’s Talk Nigeria.’
“Despite the situation, we are proceeding with necessary actions. We are in touch with decorators, security, the head of the judiciary,” Ndoma-Egba assured.
“While we are still waiting for the release of funds to enable my committee to prepare towards the inauguration of the new governor, we have encouraged the vendors to commence actions.”
Subcommittees, composed of state notables, have been diligently at work to ensure a hitch-free inauguration of the incoming governor, Prince Bassey Otu, who is set to succeed Prof Ben Ayade.
Ndoma-Egba revealed that the ceremony at the U.J. Esuene Stadium will be short, lasting only 10 to 15 minutes, with the central focus being the taking of the traditional oath of allegiance.
In preparation for the arrival of dignitaries and visitors to grace the inauguration, Ndoma-Egba emphasized that his committee has urged government agencies to step up their efforts to maintain cleanliness in Calabar, the capital city of Cross River State.
“We know that Calabar has always been a clean and green city, and there are government agencies whose tasks it is to ensure cleanliness. But we are impressing on them to ensure the work is done efficiently as dignitaries will arrive in the city to witness the inauguration of the new governor,” he added.
With the clock ticking, the inauguration committee and the people of Cross River State are optimistic that the handover ceremony will proceed smoothly, signaling a new chapter in the state’s leadership under Prince Bassey Otu.
