The Governor-elect of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu has assured the people of the state that his victory during the March 18 governorship election in the state is a victory for all Cross Riverians, not a winner-takes-all.

He thanked the people for electing him as governor of the State.

Senator Prince Otu who was the candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the state spoke in his acceptance speech posted on his social media handle.

According to him, it is a time for rebuilding and healing of all wounds.

He therefore called on the people of the state to jointly make the Cross River State work again irrespective of party differences.

He then pledged to pledged to run a compassionate administration, a listening government in which all blades of ideas shall be given a fair hearing and chance at success.

His acceptance speech reads: “Fellow Cross Riverians, this is the day we have waited for, prayed for, and hoped for.

“It is the day that demonstrates, in a most profound way, the strength of our democracy and our people’s collective resolve to continue our peaceful march into a new era of growth and economic prosperity.

“Brothers and sisters, I dedicate this victory to God Almighty, who in His Infinite wisdom has given us this day.

“This victory has once again proven God’s immense presence in the affairs of Cross River State. There is not a shadow of doubt about that! The glory belongs to Him.

“Next, my gratitude goes to our dear Governor, His Excellency, Prof. Ben Ayade.

“In developing countries, experience has shown that the struggle for power is not often a contest of ideas but a battle between right and wrong and justice and injustice.

“Your Excellency, you stood your ground and ensured that the delicate balance that holds our beloved state in place did not trip and tumble.

“This singular act has set you apart as a man of deep convictions and passionate moral force. You have etched your name in history, thank you so much.

“I bow in humility to the leadership and members of our great party (the APC) who worked night and day to give us victory.

“You went from door to door and from one market square to another to wake our brothers and sisters up to the incredible possibilities of a new Cross River State. This victory is a product of your commitment.

“I am infinitely grateful to the leaders of the church and the traditional institutions, student bodies and the youths, the market women and professional associations, the non-indigenes, the town unions, and everyday people of Cross River State from the peaks of Obanliku hills to the lowlands of Bakassi!. You came together to make this history. This Dream is your dream!

“Finally, I must thank my dear wife, my family, and close friends who had to live with my long absences during the campaigns and who shared my anxieties when the votes were counted. You have the best of my love always!

“Fellow Cross Riverians, the victory we celebrate today is not a winner-takes-all. It’s not the victory of one political interest over another or the victory of one cultural zone over others, but the victory of our brotherhood over the dark forces that seek to polarize us into camps. It is the victory of our humanity over poisonous rhetoric”, the Governor-elect said.