Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has expressed optimism that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will soon take full political control of Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone.
Speaking to journalists in Calabar following his return from the APC’s grand reception for Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor Otu stated that the party is poised to secure the remaining three PDP-controlled states — Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, and Rivers.
“An increasing number of South-South states under APC governance is a dream realized,” Governor Otu said, describing recent political developments as a strategic breakthrough for the ruling party.
Until recently, Cross River had been the lone APC-led state in the region. With Delta and Edo States now under APC control — following Governor Oborevwori’s high-profile defection — the party now holds sway in three of the six states in the South-South.
Governor Otu, who serves as Vice Chairman of the South-South Governors’ Forum, said the APC’s goal is not just electoral victory but “regional integration and prosperity.”
“Once we consolidate power across all six South-South states, we can unlock stronger regional cooperation, fast-track economic development, and enhance political stability,” he stated.
Otu also referenced the temporary federal takeover of Rivers State, currently under a sole administrator following the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara, as part of the shifting political terrain in the region.
He called on Governor Oborevwori and other defectors to bring their grassroots strength and political experience to bear in shaping the party’s future and delivering progress to the South-South.
“Together, in APC, we will chart a new course of greatness for the South-South and our nation,” Otu declared.
The Governor’s remarks come amid heightened political activity in the region and strategic moves by the APC to consolidate national power ahead of upcoming elections.
