By Felix Asuquo, Calabar
Yoruba women and youths resident in Cross River State have declared support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu, citing their performance in infrastructure, the economy and social development.
The group made the declaration during the maiden Oodua Women Solidarity Unity Walk in Calabar, where participants also showcased Yoruba culture and reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence among ethnic groups in the state.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Edema Erom, commended the Yoruba community for its contributions to the socio-economic development and peace of Cross River, noting that its members had lived in the state for decades.
Erom said the community had become an integral part of the state, adding that the unity walk demonstrated the spirit of accommodation and cultural diversity for which Cross River is known.
“We appreciate the Yoruba women and youths for the historical significance and the relationship you have maintained, having lived here for decades. You are an integral part of us,” she said.
“We laud you for your various contributions towards the economic development and peace of Cross River State. This unity walk, which is symbolic, showcases the culture and tradition of the people,” the commissioner added.
She urged the participants to support Tinubu, Otu and other All Progressives Congress candidates, arguing that continuity in government would sustain development efforts.
“Supporting the President, the Governor and all APC candidates will lead to sustainability and development. We must prepare for five over five, all APC,” Erom said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Cross River State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Chief Imam Kabeer Olowolayemo, described the walk as a demonstration of the community’s support for the President and the governor.
He commended Otu’s administration for what he described as its inclusive approach to governance, saying people from different ethnic backgrounds had been brought together.
“This Oodua Women Solidarity Unity Walk is a demonstration of total allegiance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu. Under the Otu administration, all tribes have been brought together irrespective of background,” Olowolayemo stated.
The President of Oodua Progressive Women in Politics, Adejoke Oyeleye, said the event was organised to promote Yoruba heritage and demonstrate solidarity with the federal and state governments.
“The aim of the unity walk is to showcase our culture and show solidarity to President Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu. We are totally committed to their re-election,” Oyeleye said.
She added that the group’s support was based on its assessment of the performance of both leaders.
“Our choice is informed by credibility and performance. Their infrastructural, economic and social performance is visible. Supporting them will enable them to consolidate on the gains made in the first term for a better tomorrow,” she said.
The Special Adviser on Support Group Matters, Joseph Bassey, also praised the women and youths for promoting their cultural heritage through a peaceful public procession, describing them as an important support base.
The walk attracted participants from the six local government areas of the Southern Senatorial District. It began at Millennium Park, proceeded through Mary Slessor Avenue, Marian Road and Barracks Road, and ended at the Eleven-Eleven Roundabout in Calabar.
