The people of Bakassi Local Government Area have praised Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, calling him a champion of justice.
This recognition follows the governor’s announcement that the state government will no longer tolerate the presence of displaced Bakassi residents living as refugees in their own land.
During the official signing and endorsement ceremony for the Bakassi Deep Seaport project by stakeholders in Calabar on Thursday, Governor Otu expressed his concern for the Bakassi people, who have long been marginalized and relegated to a refugee status in their homeland.
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However, he demanded an end to this situation.
HRM (Dr) Etim Okon Edet, the Paramount Ruler of Bakassi, expressed gratitude for the governor’s firm stance during a media briefing, commending him for offering the Bakassi people the hopeful future they have long desired.
He praised the community for their bravery, determination, and resilience, which he believes have finally borne fruit.
“I commend you, Bakassi people. I honor your bravery and determination.
“When everything else was lost, your spirit became your fortress in a trying world. Apart from the Israelites, you are among the most courageous and steadfast people on the planet.
“The migration of the Hebrew people from their oppressors is a significant tale in the Old Testament, illustrating a journey of suffering, liberation, and salvation.
“Israel’s hardships in Egypt prepared them for a transformative journey through the wilderness to a promised land.
“Similarly, your struggles have equipped you for a bright future, which began yesterday under the leadership of Governor Prince Bassey Otu.
“Today, we gather to express our gratitude to Governor Otu for being the champion of justice and truth in the Bakassi situation.
“For the last 17 years, we have endured humanitarian, economic, social, political, and security challenges.
“Our welfare has not been a priority. However, we are liberated by the grace of God.
“May God bless Prince Otu and his family. We also extend our special thanks to the press for their ongoing support.
“In the words of O.J. Sanders, ‘the eyes that look are common; the eyes that see are rare.’ Senator Prince Bassey Otu is truly the ‘OTU-EKONG of BAKASSI,’” he stated.
Elaborating on the significance of the governor’s announcement, Chief Udeme Okon, the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Host Communities, clarified that the governor made it abundantly clear—a fact recognized by the presidency, the National Boundary Commission, and traditional leaders—that the Bakassi Peninsula consists of several islands.
“Five islands exist, but only two were ceded to Cameroon. The remaining three—Dayspring 1, Dayspring 2, and Qua Island—allow for the return of citizens to their unceded lands in Nigeria.
“A camp does not provide a community where traditional rulers can exercise their authority.
“This peninsula will secure the state’s coastal status, as these communities are already coastal and will be profiled and recognized by the National Boundary Commission.
“Consequently, the 13 percent revenue will be allocated to the state as it regains its coastal status, in contrast to the landlocked area of Ikang,” he said.
