As Cross Riverians continue to anticipate the conduct of local government elections in the state, and with the State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) further stating that elections will hold before the end of December, 2024, permutations are rife as to who is most prepared, deserves to or should occupy the plomp position in the third tier of government across the 18 councils of Cross River State.
In Odukpani local government area, names like Edem Darlington, Governor Bassey Otu's Deputy Press Secretary (from Ikoneto ward), Etim Asido, a former councillor and secretary of the Governor's family (Otu Mesembe House - Adiabo), Bassey Inyang, a Public Affairs Manager with Lafarge Africa PLC, Mfamosing Plant, and Eyo Nsa, have all been touted to be aspiring for the chairmanship position.
Even a cursory look at the the aforementioned aspirants individuals records shows has laid bare who is better prepared for the position and more acceptable by the masses as well as those who are merely seeking political attention and/or swimming against the political tide.
Etim Asido's aspiration for chairman has already hit the brick wall being that he is the governor's cousin. Political pundits have predicted that the odds are against him, knowing that Governor Otu will not want to be accused of nepotism where his direct relatibe becomes chairman of council.
Inyang Bassey, here, has been termed a featherweight among them for being largely unknown by the political class nor the vast majority of Adukpani citizens. He has been perceived in some circles as crafty, braggadocios and self-centered, lacking the pulchritude of such ambitious office.
In Elder Eyo Nsa's case, concerns are being raised over his allegiance to forces working at cross-purposes to the government of the day, with a lot of people wary of him rocking the leadership boat should he be given the chairmanship opportunity. Nsa who belongs to the old political stock, also seems too elitist and lacks the acceptability of the other political actors in the area.
Edem Darlington, the youthful, vibrant and farsighted Deputy Press Secretary to the Governor that is enjoying massive acceptability across all segments of the Odukpani masses. His tentacles, having blossomed in the private, and later heading the association of online journalists, sector before becoming an integral part of the governor's virile media team.
Coming from Ikoneto political ward, which is to produce the next Chairman, according to the gentleman's zoning arrangement of Odukpani LGA, stands Edem in good stead to take the position. Having worked with the governor on a daily basis since the pre-election days until now, Darlington understands the Otu-led administration's policy direction, especially to drive development in the grassroots. His mental alertness, humility, friendly disposition and progressive mindset pitches him above every other aspirant to the Chairmanship position of Odukpani LGA.
Edem Darlington's prospects for taking the Odukpani Chairmanship seat are looking promising, considering his experience and initiatives. As the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to Cross Rivers Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, Edem Darlington has become a totem in promoting the state's tourism potentials and business opportunities. His brainchild, the "Think Cross River" phenomenon has deepened advocacy for patriotism, unity, and social justice, which resonates with both the government and the citizenry.
Some of his notable strengths include:
- *Leadership Experience*: As Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Edem Darlington has likely gained valuable experience in governance and administration.
- *Community Engagement*: His role as Chairman of the Association of Cross River State Online Journalists (ACROJ) demonstrates his ability to engage with the community and promote local development.
- *Vision for Progress*: Edem Darlington's initiatives suggest he has a clear vision for the state's progress and is committed to promoting social justice.
While we all expect the best for our LGAs, I wish to beckon on all sons and daughters of Odukpani to realize that the expected best can and is palpably visible in their leading Chairmanship aspirant, Edem Darlington. Let us give him the opportunity to replicate the same hard work he is putting in the media management of the governor's activities, policies, programmes and projects in our dear Odukpani local government area.
K. A. O. Etta, writes from Calabar, the state capital.
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