Following his re-election as governor of Cross River State, Professor Ben Ayade has promised to run an inclusive government that will foster unity in the state.
To this end, Ayade has extended an olive branch to all those who contested the governorship election with him to join hands with him to collectively build the state.
A statement issued in Calabar and signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Christian Ita, said the governor made the pledge at the end of the state security council meeting on Wednesday.
The governor was quoted as describing those who ran the governorship election against him as ‘co-petitors’ and not competitors or rivals.
“I want every single Cross Riverian, particularly those who ran election against me to recognise the fact that I am ready to provide a platform for us to come together.
“Some of them have great ideas, some of them are intellectually brilliant and I have respect for them all,” Ayade is quoted as saying.
He said having them play pivotal roles in his government will help fast-track the realization of his prosperity agenda for the state.
“I am willing to engage with them very seriously to build our state as we can’t afford to breed poverty”, the statement further quoted Ayade.
The governor is also quoted as thanking the 25 governorship candidates who congratulated him on his re-election victory and promised to have them play key roles in his government.
