A former chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Cross River State Coordinator of the National Association of Criminologists and Security Practitioners of Nigeria, Dr. Bobby Ekpenyong, has described Cross River State as a model for security management in Nigeria, commending Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu for restoring peace and stability across the state.
Dr. Ekpenyong, who is also a lecturer in the Department of Criminology and Security Studies at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) and recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), made the remarks while speaking with journalists in Calabar over the weekend.
Security Is Governor Otu’s Greatest Achievement – Bobby Ekpenyong
According to the criminologist, Governor Otu’s most significant achievement in the last three years has been in the area of security, noting that the state has witnessed a remarkable reduction in kidnapping, banditry, and violent crimes.
He recalled that before the current administration came into office, many residents lived in fear due to rising insecurity, particularly along the Biase axis, where incidents of kidnapping and attacks reportedly occurred frequently. “There was a time people slept with their two eyes open. Commuters avoided travelling through parts of Biase after 4 p.m. because of insecurity. Today, the narrative has changed significantly,” he stated.
Dr. Ekpenyong attributed the turnaround to what he described as Governor Otu’s strategic investment in security infrastructure and effective deployment of security expertise.
Cross River Emerging as Safe Haven for Investors
The UNICAL lecturer further noted that the improved security situation has restored investors’ confidence in the state, leading to increased economic activities and renewed business interests.
According to him, previous concerns that forced some businesses to shut down or relocate due to insecurity have largely disappeared. “When an environment is safe, investors naturally return. Businesses can thrive, and economic activities begin to flourish again,” he said.
He added that Cross River’s peaceful atmosphere is gradually repositioning the state as one of Nigeria’s preferred destinations for investment and tourism.
Nightlife Returns to Calabar
Dr. Ekpenyong also highlighted the revival of Calabar’s nightlife, describing the state capital as vibrant and bustling once again.
He pointed to increased visitor inflow, improved hotel occupancy rates during weekends, and ongoing beautification efforts in the city.
The criminologist specifically commended the Calabar Urban Development Authority (CUDA) for improvements in environmental sanitation and urban renewal initiatives. “Calabar is bubbling again. The city is becoming greener and more attractive. Refuse evacuation has improved, roads are cleaner, and public infrastructure is receiving attention,” he said.
Commendation for Infrastructure and Employment Initiatives
Beyond security, Dr. Ekpenyong praised Governor Otu’s administration for ongoing road rehabilitation projects across urban and rural communities.
He noted that major roads in Calabar have been rehabilitated, traffic systems improved, and several rural road projects initiated across various local government areas.
The former PDP chieftain also commended the administration’s employment drive, describing the recruitment process into the state and local government civil services as transparent and merit-based.
According to him, thousands of Cross Riverians have benefited from the ongoing employment initiatives.
Calls for Support Ahead of 2027
Dr. Ekpenyong urged Cross Riverians to continue supporting Governor Otu’s administration, stating that the governor should not be distracted by criticisms from political opponents.
He described Governor Otu as a leader focused on governance rather than publicity and likened the current developmental strides to the era of former Governor Donald Duke.”What Governor Otu has achieved within three years is remarkable. The people appreciate his efforts, and Cross River is gradually reclaiming its place on the national map,” he said.
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