The Cross River State Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke, has called on the organised labour to brace up and be part of the process of electing the next governor for the state.
Imoke, who made the call during a state banquet to mark the 2014 Workers Day at the Peregrino Hall, Calabar, maintained: “The governorship of Cross River State, come 2015 is too important for one man to decide, so be bold, be part of that decision in 2015.
“This Labour Day reminds us of the role you play in the development of the society.
“Anyone who underrates your role does not understand the fact that the decision makers in any society are the middle class and most of you constitute that class.
“The sooner you know your powers and rights as a middle class, then you can join us in giving directions to our state.
“So be bold to say I want to be part of that decision in 2015.
“Don’t take it for granted, don’t wait for me to make a pronouncement because I will not make any such.”
While allaying fears that the governorship may be given to the southern senatorial district, Imoke averred: “By the grace of God, the next governor of Cross River State will come from the northern senatorial district, the only senatorial district that has not produced a governor since the inception of this state.
“So why won’t we put our hands together to support our brothers from the north?
“The next governor would not be picked by Liyel Imoke.
“The next governor will be picked by the almighty God, with all of you playing your own parts.”
On the recent improvement recorded in WAEC examinations in the state, the governor said: “When we came we were number 27 in WAEC examination, which did not augur well for us, but today we are number five in Nigeria.
“These are the things we need to partner with you to make it happen.
“The same goes for healthcare delivery.
“When we came, we had less than 300 health facilities, but today over 800 health facilities have been put in place, making health care delivery services available to the remotest part of the state, providing access, which today has reduced infant and maternal mortality rate significantly, making our children healthier and able to go to school.
“As we celebrate May Day, let us think about the future of Cross River State, let us think about the future of our children, let’s be careful about how we believe the rumours and stories.
“Cross River State is a beautiful state.
“The workers in Cross River are the best in Nigeria.
“They are best performing workers.
“I’m not flattering you.
“Believe you me.
“I have seen workers in other states.”
In his remark, the Chairman Nigerian Labour Congress, Comrade John Ushie, lauded the passion demonstrated by Imoke in developing human capacity for effective and efficient service delivery and promised to build on the foundation laid by the governor in growing the state.
On his part, the Trade Union Congress Chairman, Comrade Clarkson Otu, promised to add value to the vision of the state that will take Cross River State to higher height.
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