Thousands of supporters filled the Ikom Township Stadium on Saturday as the Prince Is Coming 2027 Movement staged a large-scale 1.5 million-man endorsement rally, drawing political leaders, stakeholders and party faithful from across Cross River State in what observers describe as an early show of strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.
By Victoria Omini -IKOM, CROSS RIVER — April 18, 2026
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor highlighted the administration’s efforts to address long-standing workers’ welfare issues, noting that ₦10 billion had already been released to offset gratuities owed since 2007, with additional payments expected before the middle of the year. He assured that the government remains committed to clearing all outstanding obligations while also restoring the state’s economic base, particularly through efforts to reclaim its oil wells.
He also expressed strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, crediting him with intervening in the oil well dispute involving Cross River State and initiating major infrastructure projects. He pointed to the ongoing Calabar to Lagos superhighway project and disclosed that the President is expected in Calabar to flag off the Bakassi Deep Seaport. According to him, the state must significantly increase its electoral support for the President in the next election, calling on citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and mobilize others to participate in the democratic process.
The Deputy Governor further used the opportunity to emphasize unity within the ruling party, conveying the Governor’s message that all aspirants should remain calm and avoid unnecessary conflict. He assured that internal issues would be resolved through dialogue, stressing that everyone has the right to aspire but must do so within the framework of party unity and discipline.
In his remarks, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Emmanuel Ironbar, traced the origin of the Prince Is Coming Movement to 2020, explaining that it was conceived as a strategic response to perceived political injustice and a platform to promote equity and inclusive governance. He recalled that the movement gained momentum through grassroots engagement and empowerment initiatives that directly impacted constituents, including the distribution of equipment, financial support and opportunities for small-scale enterprises.
He noted that despite political setbacks in previous election cycles, the movement remained resilient, expanded its reach and eventually contributed to electoral success in 2023. Ironbar acknowledged that while some supporters have been recognized through appointments and empowerment programmes, others are still awaiting inclusion, assuring them that the government remains committed to rewarding loyalty and service. He highlighted ongoing development efforts in the state, including infrastructure renewal, healthcare expansion, agricultural support programmes and the revitalization of key economic assets.
Also speaking, the Executive Director of the South South Development Commission, Soni Abang, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future under the leadership of President Tinubu. He described the President as a prepared leader with a clear vision to reposition the country, noting that current economic challenges are part of a broader global reality. He maintained that reforms are already yielding results, with gradual improvements in food supply and economic stability.
Abang commended the Cross River State Government for what he described as visible progress across the state, including road construction, debt reduction and improvements in transportation. He urged supporters to remain committed to the movement and to continue mobilizing at the grassroots, noting that future campaigns would focus on showcasing completed projects rather than making new promises.
The rally ended with renewed calls for unity, increased voter registration and sustained grassroots mobilization as leaders expressed confidence that the movement’s growing structure across the state will play a decisive role in the 2027 elections.
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