Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has formally sworn in Hon. Egbung Odama Egbung as the substantive Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, marking the end of a protracted leadership transition in the council and setting a renewed tone for grassroots governance in the state.

The swearing-in ceremony, held on Monday, was not only symbolic but significant, as it effectively resolved the administrative uncertainty that had trailed the local government in recent months. Governor Otu used the occasion to extend New Year greetings to stakeholders while underscoring the importance of unity, stability and service-driven leadership at the grassroots level.

Local Government as the Bedrock of Development

Speaking at the event, Governor Otu described local government administration as the closest tier of governance to the people, stressing that its effectiveness directly impacts communities, families and livelihoods. He noted that meaningful development at the state level is impossible without functional and responsive local councils.

According to the governor, the ruling party places strong emphasis on efficient local governance because of its strategic role in driving rural development and inclusive growth. He added that leadership positions are not platforms for dominance but responsibilities that demand humility, compassion and accountability.

“Leadership is not about power or personal authority. It is about service to the people, especially the most vulnerable,” the governor reportedly stated, urging the new chairman to prioritise the welfare of the people of Bekwarra.

Peaceful Transition and Party Maturity

Governor Otu commended party leaders, stakeholders and relevant institutions for managing the transition in Bekwarra peacefully and without disruption. He praised the maturity displayed by political actors during the process, noting that their conduct helped preserve unity and political stability within the council.

Observers noted that the calm handling of the leadership change reflects a broader effort by the state government to promote internal cohesion and orderly governance across local government areas.

Confidence in Egbung’s Capacity to Deliver

Expressing confidence in the new chairman, Governor Otu described Hon. Egbung as a product of due process with a clear understanding of governance at the grassroots. He cited Egbung’s experience and performance while acting in the role, noting that he has earned the trust and support of the people.

The governor also reaffirmed that Bekwarra remains central to the administration’s economic vision for Northern Cross River, assuring residents that ongoing and future initiatives would reposition the area for growth and shared prosperity.

Egbung Pledges Transparent and Service-Oriented Governance

In his response, Hon. Egbung Odama Egbung expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to the state government for the confidence reposed in him. He assured the people of Bekwarra that his administration would be guided by transparency, due process and a strong commitment to public welfare.

Describing leadership as service, Egbung urged residents to embrace hard work and collective responsibility, stressing that the new year should mark a fresh beginning for progress and development in the council.

Political analysts believe that the successful inauguration of a substantive chairman could restore stability and accelerate development efforts in Bekwarra, particularly after months of administrative uncertainty following the removal of the former council leadership.

As Cross River State enters the new year, expectations remain high that renewed leadership at the local level will translate into tangible benefits for the people and strengthen governance across the state.

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