By Cletus Asuquo
The Vice Chairmanship Candidate of the Labour Party for Calabar Municipal Council in the recently concluded Local Government Election in Cross River State, 2024, Mr. Bassey Etim, has extolled the sterling performance of Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr. in the Red Chamber, describing his tenure as a testament to visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to the progress of Cross River South Senatorial District.
Speaking in an interactive session with journalists, Etim lauded Ekpenyong’s ability to navigate the complexities of the National Assembly despite being a first-time senator, crediting his dynamism and legislative acumen for securing strategic appointments for Cross Riverians in the office of the Senate President. According to him, these appointments have positioned indigenes of the state at the heart of national decision-making processes.
Beyond political placements, Etim highlighted the senator’s immense contributions to human capital development, particularly in the area of education. “Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong has facilitated scholarships for young Cross Riverians to study abroad and within Nigeria, ensuring that our youths are equipped with the requisite knowledge to compete favourably on a global scale,” he stated.
The Labour Party chieftain also praised Ekpenyong’s intervention in economic empowerment, citing his support for small and medium-scale enterprises across the district. He underscored the senator’s dedication to infrastructural advancement, referencing his role in attracting critical road projects and the facilitation of solar-powered streetlights in various communities. “These projects are not just developmental milestones; they are lifelines that improve the quality of life and enhance economic activities in our region,” Etim remarked.
In a further demonstration of empathy towards the plight of his constituents, Ekpenyong has sustained the free bus ride initiative within Calabar metropolis, a scheme designed to cushion the economic hardship confronting residents. “At a time when inflation and economic difficulties have become overwhelming, the senator has exhibited rare sensitivity by ensuring that transportation costs are alleviated for our people,” Etim noted.
Commending Ekpenyong’s temperament in the face of criticism, Etim described him as a leader of uncommon maturity whose focus remains unwavering despite distractions. He asserted that the senator’s audacious engagement in legislative affairs, even as a first-term lawmaker, underscores his preparedness for higher responsibilities. “It takes an astute politician with an in-depth understanding of governance to make the kind of bold moves he has made in the hallowed chambers,” he said.
Etim called on the people of Cross River South to acknowledge and consolidate these gains by rallying behind Ekpenyong for another term in 2027, stressing that his continuity in the Senate would guarantee sustained development. “We must not allow sentiment to derail progress. Leadership should be about impact, and Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong has proven that he has both the vision and capacity to deliver on the aspirations of our people,” he affirmed.
With growing consensus on his performance, Ekpenyong’s tenure continues to redefine representation, positioning Cross River South on the path of sustained growth. As the political climate builds towards 2027, stakeholders are keenly watching the unfolding trajectory of a man whose leadership has become synonymous with purposeful governance.
