I can’t celebrate my birthday because of hardship, says Gov Otu

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State recently turned 65, but he expressed that he could not celebrate due to the prevailing hardship in Nigeria.

Speaking on Sparkling FM Radio in Calabar, during a segment where his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Linus Obogo, and Special Adviser on General Duties, Barrister Ekpenyong Akiba, linked him to the program, Governor Otu shared his reflections on his new age.

The Governor highlighted the difficult economic challenges facing the country, noting that the situation made it inappropriate for him to celebrate his milestone birthday amid widespread hardship.

Otu said, “I cannot in all sincerity celebrate my birthday with such expected fanfare in the midst of current hardships.

“There’s much sufferings in the country due to current hyperinflation. It would be insensitive to do so. That’s why it is a low-key event.”

He expressed gratitude to the people of the state for their prayers and good wishes.

The governor said his administration was intentional about impacting the people.

“I have occupied many positions in this country. In all, I have never disappointed. So I vow that I shall not disappoint the people of Cross River State as their governor, by the grace of God. There’ll be value addition.”

He disclosed that from next year he will be holding regular town hall meetings across the three senatorial districts in the state.

“It’ll enable the people to speak with me directly; ask me no-hold-barred questions, so that they will hear my responses directly.”