Empowerment Beyond Politics: Senator Stephen Odey Distributes Sewing Machines, Motorcycles, Rice, Cash as Stakeholders Applaud His Leadership in Yache

 

Yesterday the 5th day of January 2026, Stakeholders across Northern Cross River State have commended Senator Professor Stephen Adi Odey for what they described as consistent, people-centred leadership, following a massive empowerment programme held in Yache, Yala Local Government Area. The gathering was also a new year celebration with Yache nation and  Odey's supporters across the North. 

Addressing beneficiaries and community leaders, Senator Odey said his decision to give was driven by compassion and not surplus, urging residents to imbibe a culture of sharing and consistency in loyalty. He disclosed that the empowerment cut across the five local government areas of Northern Cross River, with emphasis on entrepreneurship, unity, and grassroots development.

As part of the intervention, the Senator distributed 32 sewing machines, allocating two machines to each of the 14 wards in Yala, alongside 17 brand-new motorcycles, over 200 bags of rice, and several cash grants to women, youths, traditional rulers, political structures, and community groups. He also announced the donation of a vehicle to the newly installed clan head and confirmed the provision of an APC Secretariat office in the ward headquarters.

Taking turns to speak, Hon. Brian Odey, Member representing Yala I State Constituency, described the event as historic, praising Senator Odey for accepting leadership responsibility and delivering tangible dividends of democracy. He assured the Senator of the continued support of Yala people and pledged to align with him to attract more development to the area.

Representing the Cross River State Governor, Boniface Okache, Deputy Chief of Staff, said Senator Odey had once again exceeded expectations, noting that the empowerment was a clear demonstration of leadership by example. He challenged other political office holders to emulate the Senator’s commitment to sharing, accountability, and service to the people, describing him as a man of integrity whose word could be trusted.

Also speaking, Frank Alim Okpe, President General of the Yache Youth, said the empowerment reaffirmed Senator Odey’s lifelong culture of giving. He stressed that the Senator gives not because he has much, but because he cares, urging youths to remain loyal, disciplined, and consistent in their support.

In his remarks, HRH Chief Isaac Omaji described the Senator as a man known for consistently doing good whenever he gathers his people. He offered prayers for continued strength and blessings, noting that good deeds speak louder than words.

Pharmacist John Odoh, in a welcome address, likened the empowerment to a manifestation of love, unity, humility, and peace, describing the programme as a reflection of Senator Odey’s personal values and leadership philosophy. He urged the people to remain united and peaceful, stressing that the community was stronger together.

Speaking emotionally on behalf of beneficiaries, Mrs. Francesca Onigah thanked the Senator for remembering her and others, describing the gesture as life-changing. She pledged her continued support and prayed for divine guidance and protection for the Senator.

The event drew traditional rulers, women groups, youths, political stakeholders, and party leaders from across Northern Cross River State, all of whom described the empowerment as timely and impactful amid prevailing economic challenges.

Senator Odey reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive development, peace, and empowerment, assuring the people that more interventions would follow as opportunities arise.