Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Edet Otu, has urged Nigerians to refrain from protesting, attributing the current hardships to the Palestine-Israel and Russia-Ukraine conflicts, alongside the global recession.
Governor Otu emphasized that the government is actively working to mitigate the effects of these challenges. He acknowledged the constitutional right to protest but encouraged dialogue and peace, warning against a repeat of the Endsars protests.
In a statement on his X handle, Governor Otu called for unity and support from Nigerians to overcome the current economic difficulties.
“Unfortunately, this administration took office amid a rising recession, necessitating extreme measures to counter its impact. The high expectations from the electorate, media-induced anxiety, and political intolerance have exacerbated the situation. The global recession, combined with the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing international conflicts, has driven inflation worldwide, affecting Nigeria and our state as well,” Otu stated.
The governor highlighted various social support measures implemented by his administration to alleviate the hardships faced by Cross River State residents. He assured that all palliatives would be distributed without delay or withholding.
“Under my leadership, we have responded with responsibility, kindness, and compassion, providing immediate relief and long-term support. I have ensured the prompt distribution of palliative items to our state. No package meant for Cross Riverians will be delayed or denied,” he added.
Governor Otu stressed the importance of peaceful protests while cautioning against the potential consequences of unrest. He urged citizens to focus on recovery and resilience.
“While peaceful protests are a constitutional right, we must learn from the Endsars experience. Let us channel our patriotic goodwill into recovery efforts. Many nations have faced economic calamities; let us not bury our heads in the sand but rise to the challenge. We must rebuild and march towards success, demonstrating our love for our country by working together to achieve a brighter future.”
Governor Otu concluded with a call for unity and determination, emphasizing the need to honor the efforts of past heroes and secure a prosperous future for the next generation.
