In a historic move ahead of the November 2nd, 2024 local government elections, His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, has slashed the cost of the Expression of Intent Form for aspirants vying for the positions of Local Government Chairmen and Councillors under the All Progressives Congress (APC). This decision marks the first time in Nigeria’s political history that such a significant cost reduction has been made to ease the financial burden on candidates.
Reacting to the development, the APC Scribe for Cross River State, Pastor Patrick Asikpo Okon, commended the Governor for his consistent people-centred leadership. “The Governor keeps spinning surprises every now and then. And all these carry the toga that reflects the interest of the people. He understands the biting economic realities, hence, those vying for these offices are not choked financially. A hundred thousand Naira for the position of chairman, and twenty thousand Naira for councillor respectively,” Asikpo stated.
Asikpo emphasized that this unprecedented reduction in the cost of the forms signals the Governor’s commitment to fostering genuine service at the grassroots level. “It further reflects that their aspirations should be for service to the people at the grassroots,” he said, noting that this move will encourage wider participation from those who genuinely seek to serve their communities.
The APC Secretary further praised the Governor’s “People First Mantra,” remarking that it is not just a slogan but a guiding principle in governance. “The Governor’s actions continuously match his words, ensuring that governance at every level remains accessible and attuned to the needs of the people,” Asikpo added.
This bold step by Governor Otu has been widely applauded within political circles, with many describing it as a timely intervention that will provide financial relief to aspiring candidates while deepening democratic engagement in Cross River State.
