By George Odok
Ikom (Cross River), Mr Victor Abang, the All Progressive Congress candidate for Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency in Cross River on Sunday pledged to attract genuine investments into the constituency if elected by his people.
Abang disclosed this while addressing his supporters at Yala-Nkum ward in Ikom local government area during his campaign rally.
He explained that loxal and foreign investors would be attracted to the constituency’s abundant cocoa, palm oil, banana and plantain which are the mainstay of the people’s economy.
Abang said that incentives would be provided for investors to establish cottage industries in the communities in order to boost the economic potential of the peole.
“In my desire to represent you at the National Assembly, I want to promise that I will always organise an annual economic and investment summit to harness our viable farm produce.
“I will bring people from outside to look at our cocoa, oil palm and banana and see how they can establish small cottage industries to drive the economy and create an effect.
“Since the federal constituency is known for large production of cocoa, palm oil, plantain and other crops, we must find industries for our season farmers.
“All these things are not easy to do, but I believe that with my strength, connections and God’s grace, we can achieve them,” he said.
He charged the people to come out and vote on February 16, adding that report should be made to the police of any form of intimidation on the election day.
Prince Eka Williams, the Director General of Victor Abang Reality Campaign Network, said that the prospect for a better representation lies in the hands of the electorate.
Williams said that Abang understood the politics of the National Assembly having served three Senate Presidents, assuring that if elected, Abang would facilitate job opportunities for graduates in the area.
Mr Agbor Ogar, Chapter Chairman of APC in Ikom, said that the people of Ikom/Boki deserves a better representation through Abang.
Ogar, who enlightened the people on the voting pattern, urged residents in Ikom to thumbprint on the broom symbol on the day of the election.
Mr Odey Ebaye, Youth Leader in the area, who led over 300 youths in a solidarity walk for Abang, said that youths in the area have endorsed Abang for the election.
He told NAN in an interview that Abang has been consistent in his community development programmes for his people, adding that such gesture would continue if Abang is elected.
“As you can see, we have no other candidate for the House of Representatives aside Abang. Our support and loyalty to him is 100 per cent,” he said.
NAN reports that over 20 support groups came out in their numbers during the rally in support of Abang’s ambition.