Princess Victoria Musa-Ujah Offoboche has remained a likeable force in Cross River State’s political and social landscape, as evidenced by her series of activities from the Yala Local Government elections campaign to her condolence visit to Dr. Stella Oreme Odey over the weekend.
Campaigning Across Yala Local Government
Toward the end of October 2024, Princess Victoria embarked on an extensive grassroots campaign across Yala Local Government Area in the lead-up to the local government elections.
Over two intensive days, she toured 14 wards, including Wanihem, Wanikade, Wanokom, Igede, Mfuma/Ntrigom, Ijraga, Yahe, O’oh, Okpoma, Ugaga, Okuku, Echumofana, Yache, and Gabu. Her efforts were aimed at drumming up support for Dr. Fred Okem and Hon. Godwin Odama, the Chairmanship and Vice-Chairmanship candidates of the All Progressives Congress.
She also held strategic meetings with ward leaders in Okpoma, including Hon. John Oko, former Vice Chairman of Yala Local Government, and Victor Omaga Odo, a respected stalwart and former State Secretary of the party. These meetings helped consolidate support for the party’s candidates and councillorship hopefuls in the area.
The turning point of the meetings with supporters and leaders of Okpoma Ward was her benevolent act of providing cash and campaign materials ranging from fez caps to T Shirts with inscriptions essential for the local government polls.
The election, held on November 2, 2024, saw Dr. Okem and his Deputy, Hon. Odama emerge victorious, an outcome credited also to the rigorous campaign efforts.
Inauguration and Leadership Challenges
The following week, Princess Offoboche joined other dignitaries in Calabar for the swearing-in of local government executives, including Dr. Okem and Hon. Odama. Shortly after, she witnessed the inauguration of the Yala Local Legislative Assembly, which saw 14 Councillors sworn in and a lady emerge as the leader of the house, a milestone for women in the region.
However, the celebrations were briefly marred by a protest at the council gate in Okpoma, where irate youths voiced their displeasure over the exclusion of certain groups in the legislative house’s leadership. Princess Offoboche, alongside Hon. Brian Odey, intervened to restore calm, assuring the youths of future inclusivity in political composition.
Hosting the New Leadership in Okuku
Princess Offoboche later hosted Dr. Okem, his wife, and the Vice Chairman, Hon. Godwin Odama, and other officials in Okuku at Jonag Hotel, Notable figures in attendance included Council Leader Hon. Princess Mary Eje, and 14 newly sworn-in Councillors. The Governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon Boniface Okache, and Hon. Odey Brian, Member of the Cross River State House of Assembly representing Yala 1 State Constituency, were also in attendance. Others in attendance included Hon Mike Usibe, former Chairman of Yala LGA, Hon Dr John Ulafor, former Commissioner of Local Government Affairs, among others.
She commended the Chairman’s gesture, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and community-driven leadership.
Condolence Visit to Dr. Stella Oreme Odey
Princess Offoboche concluded her October activities with a condolence visit to Dr. Stella Oreme Odey at Ugaga between October 14 and 15, 2024. The visit was in support of Dr Mrs. Odey, the former Commissioner for Local Government, during the burial of her younger brother, Paul Odey. The solemn event marked a show of solidarity and compassion from Princess Offoboche, who has consistently demonstrated a commitment to fostering community ties.
Reflection on Leadership and Social Commitment
Princess Victoria Musa-Ujah Offoboche’s recent engagements highlight her active role in strengthening political structures and fostering unity within Yala Local Government. Her ability to balance high-level political strategy with grassroots interactions reiterates her dedication to inclusive governance and community development.
As she returned to Abuja following her activities, Princess Offoboche left behind a legacy of leadership, compassion, and advocacy that continues to resonate across Cross River State.
