Why Oden Ewa Limited His Tour to the Central Senatorial District
By CalabarGist
The Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Hon. Oden Ewa, has clarified reasons behind his decision to restrict his recent youth outreach tour to the Central Senatorial District.
In early January 2026, precisely on January 7, Hon. Oden Ewa embarked on a tour across local government areas within the Central Senatorial District. The initiative, tagged “Oden Ewa Youth Tour,” featured the distribution of bags of rice and cash donations to youths as part of Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Following the conclusion of the tour, several reports and speculations emerged questioning why the commissioner limited his outreach to only one senatorial district, despite being a state appointee.
Addressing the controversy, Comrade Dan Obo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Mobilization and a member of the tour’s organizing committee, provided clarification on the matter.
According to Dan Obo, Hon. Oden Ewa’s movement was not carried out in his official capacity as a commissioner, but as a personal initiative. He explained that every citizen has the right to freedom of movement and association, adding that the commissioner is free to engage with any community of his choice.
He further expressed concern over what he described as persistent blackmail against young leaders who are genuinely committed to serving both the youth and older generations.
“It is surprising that a young man who has chosen to dedicate himself to public service is being subjected to unnecessary attacks and misrepresentation,” Dan Obo stated.
He concluded by noting that it was disturbing that individuals occupying higher political positions were also involved in spreading negative narratives surrounding the initiative.
