Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly has commemorated Nigeria at her 63rd Independence Day Celebration, saying the occasion of the nation’s Independence affords the Nigerians another moment to ponder on the sacrifices and labour of heroes.
Ayambem stated this in a signed statement released to the media on the occasion of Nigeria 63rd Independence Anniversary on Sunday in Calabar.
The statement reads in full:
I write to felicitate Nigerians, especially the Leader of our party, His Excellency, Sen. Prince Otu, and all well-meaning Cross Riverians on the occasion of our nation’s 63rd Independence Celebration.
The Independence we now enjoy was indeed fought for and handed over by illustrious Nigerians, whose spirit of selflessness and ideals of faith in this nation led them to pay the ultimate price.
It is also true that we have advanced and progressed in our journey through nationhood and the occasion of our Independence affords us another moment to ponder on the sacrifices and labour of our hero’s past.
Let me cease this moment to call on the Federal Government to remember the contribution of Distinguished Cross Riverians like the late. Okoi Arikpo served amongst many other portfolios as Minister of Foreign Affairs under the General Yakubu Gowon administration and with his dedication led at a time when the nation fought to stay as one indivisible entity. We believe that his strides are worthy of national recognition and immortalisation.
On behalf of the Legislature let me once again wish us all a wonderful Independence Day commemoration.
Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem,
Speaker Cross River State House of Assembly.
