The “Prince Is Coming Movement” has intensified its political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections, announcing plans for a massive endorsement rally in support of Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
By Victoria Omini- CALABAR
Speaking at a press conference held at the APC Campaign Secretariat, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Emmanuel Ironbar, alongside the Movement’s Chairman of Media and Publicity, outlined the group’s origins, achievements, and next political steps.
Ironbar traced the emergence of the movement to the political struggles following the 2015 and 2019 elections, describing it as a product of “pain, sacrifice, and resistance against impunity.” According to him, the movement initially known as “Friends of Prince Otu” was formed by loyalists determined to uphold what they described as the people’s mandate.
Despite setbacks, including the denial of a second-term senatorial bid, Ironbar said supporters remained resolute, guided by faith and the belief that leadership is ultimately determined by God.
“The slogan ‘Prince Is Coming’ was born out of doubt and opposition. Many said he lacked the resources and capacity, but we remained focused. Today, that same man is the governor,” he stated.
He recalled that Governor Otu emerged as the APC governorship candidate with an overwhelming majority, securing over 800 votes out of about 900 delegates without financial inducement and outcome he described as unprecedented in the state’s political history.
Highlighting achievements of the current administration, Ironbar credited the governor with significant infrastructural development, including extensive road construction spanning over 900 kilometres, as well as improvements in healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and security.
He also noted the restoration of public infrastructure such as street and traffic lights, increased employment opportunities, and ongoing efforts to reclaim state assets and boost economic growth, including the approval of a deep seaport project.
“Our governor believes in results, not publicity. His work speaks for itself,” Ironbar added.
In a separate address, the Movement’s Chairman of Media and Publicity formally announced that a mega endorsement rally will hold on Saturday, the 18th, with an expected turnout of over 1.5 million supporters.
According to him, the rally is aimed at openly endorsing President Tinubu and Governor Otu for a second term in office, in recognition of what he described as “people-oriented leadership and visible developmental strides.”
He disclosed that a Central Planning Committee has been constituted to ensure a successful event, comprising key political stakeholders and government officials across various sub-committees, including mobilisation, security, welfare, finance, and media.
“The endorsement rally is fully sponsored by members of the Prince Is Coming Movement, both within and outside government, as well as friends of the governor and the president,” he said.
The spokesperson further hinted at imminent mass defections from opposition parties into the All Progressives Congress (APC), asserting that the ruling party remains dominant in the state.
He cited ongoing infrastructural interventions across Cross River, including road rehabilitation projects and federal initiatives such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, as evidence of the administration’s commitment to development.
On social investment programmes, he referenced federal government initiatives like student loan schemes and support for small businesses, noting that Cross River State remains a key beneficiary.
The Movement also commended Governor Otu’s efforts in reviving previously abandoned state assets, including Tinapa, Obudu Ranch, and the International Conference Centre, as well as improvements to public institutions such as the State Library, Cultural Centre, and government offices.
Describing the governor as “people-focused, humble, and purposeful,” the spokesperson urged citizens to resist political distractions and support continuity in governance.
“We are not just mobilising for votes; we are making a statement. Cross River must speak with one voice to attract greater federal presence and development,” he said.
The Movement called on residents across party lines including members of opposition parties to join the APC and participate in the upcoming rally, which it described as “the mother of all endorsements.”
“We invite all Cross Riverians to come out en masse on the 18th to reaffirm their support. This is about sustaining progress and securing the future of the state,” he added.
The press conference ended with a call for unity, increased political participation, and collective commitment to the state’s development agenda.
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