The Cross River State Representative to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, has called for a people-centric approach to leadership as the All Progressive Congress (APC) officially flagged off its campaign for the forthcoming local government elections. The event, which was held at the Ikom Township Stadium, marked the launch of the APC’s campaign for the 18 local government chairmen and 196 political wards in Cross River State, bringing together party faithfuls, leaders, and stakeholders from across the state.
Duke who spoke with our reporter emphasized the need for elected leaders to prioritise the needs of the people, particularly at the grassroots level. He reiterated the message delivered by the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, who urged party members not to relax after the flag-off ceremony but to remain steadfast in mobilizing support to ensure victory at the polls. Duke affirmed that the Central Senatorial District, especially Ikom, has consistently played a pivotal role in the party’s electoral success, a legacy he believed would continue in the upcoming local government elections.
Duke lauded the Deputy Governor’s emphasis on proactive leadership, stating that the message was a crucial reminder for APC candidates to put the people first. He highlighted the importance of a leadership style that is responsive and accessible, noting that chairmen must be attuned to the needs of their constituents to ensure the smooth delivery of democratic dividends. “The leaders we elect must understand that their mandate is a trust given to them by the people, and they must act with integrity and dedication to uplift every community, no matter how remote. I joined with the Deputy Governor in his message which I read this morning while he was addressing the incoming Chairmen at Ikom”, Duke said.
Drawing from Odey’s speech, which underscored the need for accountability, Duke called on APC chairmanship candidates to commit themselves to improving the welfare of their people, stressing that development must not be limited to urban centres but should extend to even the most rural parts of the state. He stated, “Our objective is to see democratic dividends touch every corner of Cross River, and this will only be possible if our leaders stay close to their communities, engage with their people, and address their needs directly.”
In alignment with the directives of the Governor, Duke also reinforced the necessity for elected chairmen to reside within their local government areas. He pointed out that such a measure would foster a stronger connection between the leaders and their people, ensuring that governance remains grounded in the realities faced by their constituents. According to Duke, living among their people would help the chairmen understand local challenges better and act promptly to address them.
The NDDC representative expressed confidence in the APC’s chances, drawing parallels with the success of the 2023 governorship race, where the Central Senatorial District’s strong support was instrumental. He commended the party’s robust campaign strategies and stated that with sustained efforts, APC candidates would emerge victorious across all chairmanship and councillorship positions, thereby facilitating a smooth continuation of developmental projects in the state.
He concluded by echoing the Deputy Governor’s call for unity and diligence, urging all APC members to maintain their momentum and demonstrate their commitment to the party’s ideals. Duke shared in his optimism for a prosperous future for Cross River State under the stewardship of the APC.
The flag-off campaign event underscored a renewed focus on grassroots governance, with party leaders, including Duke, articulating a vision for leadership that is inclusive, proactive, and dedicated to serving the people. As the countdown to the local government elections begins, the APC remains confident in its vision to deliver progressive leadership across all regions of the state.
