By Onete Ekume & Ejeh peter
CALABAR — The Cross River State Political Assembly (CRISPA) has paid a courtesy visit to its Patron, Elder (Dr.) Henry Egbe Ayuk, Commissioner for Health, Cross River State, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening grassroots mobilisation and support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The delegation, led by the Director-General of CRISPA, Comrade Amb. Ejah Peter, visited Elder Ayuk at his office at the Ministry of Health in Calabar, where members described the engagement as an opportunity to honour a respected political elder, seek his counsel and further deepen their relationship with him.
Elder Ayuk, whose political career spans several decades, was described by the Assembly as a father, mentor and influential figure in Cross River politics whose leadership and guidance have contributed to the development of many younger men and women, particularly professionals in the health sector.
CRISPA said its relationship with Elder Ayuk dates back to the formative stages of the organisation, noting that the Commissioner has consistently provided the group with fatherly counsel, encouragement and moral support.
The visit also provided an opportunity for members of the Assembly to commiserate with Elder Ayuk over the recent passing of his mother and the sudden death of his colleague. The delegation offered prayers for the repose of the deceased and for strength and comfort for the Commissioner and his family.
CRISPA Commends Health Sector Initiatives
During the engagement, CRISPA commended what it described as reforms and interventions undertaken under Elder Ayuk’s stewardship of the state health sector.
The group particularly highlighted initiatives it attributed to the administration, including efforts to strengthen discipline and professionalism within the health sector, promote people-centred healthcare policies and improve access to healthcare services across Cross River State.
CRISPA also cited the reported extension of the service years of health workers from 35 to 40 years as one of the welfare measures it considered significant, describing the development as an intervention that would benefit workers in the sector.
According to the Assembly, the initiatives align with the administration’s People First agenda under Governor Bassey Edet Otu and demonstrate what it described as a commitment to improving the welfare of both healthcare workers and residents of the state.
The group said there were several other interventions which, in its assessment, had contributed to ongoing efforts to reposition the health sector.
CRISPA Unveils Activities, Reaffirms Political Mobilisation
The Assembly used the occasion to unveil some of its planned activities to Elder Ayuk and expressed appreciation for his continued accessibility, guidance and support.
CRISPA said it remains committed to mobilising support at the grassroots for Governor Bassey Edet Otu and other APC candidates ahead of the 2027 elections, describing its activities as part of its broader advocacy for good governance and political participation in the state.
Responding, Elder Ayuk expressed appreciation to the delegation for what he described as its commitment, organisation and sincerity of purpose.
The Commissioner encouraged members of CRISPA to strengthen collaboration with relevant stakeholders and intensify their engagement with communities across the state.
He also expressed support for the activities of the organisation and commended its Director-General, Comrade Amb. Ejah Peter, for his leadership.
Elder Ayuk urged the Assembly to remain united and focused, while praying for its continued growth and success.
“My doors remain open. Keep doing the good work. Together, we will deliver Cross River State for APC,” the Elder Statesman said.
The meeting ended on a cordial note, with both sides reaffirming the importance of continued engagement, mentorship and grassroots mobilisation as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections gather momentum in Cross River State.
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