2019: More Federal Constituencies adopt Gov Ayade

The gale of adoptions of Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State for the 2019 governorship race does not appear to be slowing with several groups and federal Constituencies throwing their weights behind him ahead elections.

The latest adoption of the governor came from the leaders and people of Odukpani and Calabar Municipal Federal Constituency, barely two days following similar endorsement of Govenor Ayade by Akpabuyo, Bakassi and Calabar South Federal Constituency of the state and about 80 political groups.

Speaking on behalf of the Calabar and Odukpani Federal Constituency, Chairman of the Town Hall Meeting for the adoption of Governor Ayade, Elder Ntufam Oqua Itu, said: "He is a rare gift to our generation. His agro venture project, the dualisation of Calabar Odukpani junction, the garment factory, the virgin city which will offer opportunities to decongest the city centre are a few of his several projects  being executed in our Calabar and Odukpani Federal Constituency."

According to Elder Oqua Itu, "The people of Odukpani and Calabar Municipal can proudly give the governor and his deputy a well deserved pass mark."

While asking the governor to be given an overwhelming endorsement, the Chairman of the Town Hall meeting requested Ayade to among other things, "create additional federal constituency out of Calabar and Odukpani as well as an additional state constituency.

"We are grateful for the much you have done for us, but like Olivia Twist, may we plead, Your Excellency, that we need two more commissioners and help us address the perennial erosion menace in the city.

"No doubt, we are happy with you and surely, at the end, you will be happy with us."

Also speaking on behalf of the traditional council, representative of the Paramount ruler of Odukpani, Clan Head of Odukpani, HRM, Ekpeyong Effiok said: "There is no doubt that Governor Ayade has acquitted himself in so many areas of Socio-economic speheres. He has been consistent in not only prompt but  regular payment of salaries of workers.  It is on this note that he needs our collective endorsement for 2019 to complete his many projects spread across the state. "

At the Town Hall Meeting at the headquarters of Calabar Municipal to endorse Ayade were House of Representatives member, Ntufam Eta Mbora Edim, Ntufam Asuquo Ekpeyong jnr, Ntufam Ekpo Okon, among others.