The Member representing Akamkpa I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Okon Owuna, has described the surprise birthday celebration organised for the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, by his aides, Assembly staff, and political associates as the first of its kind in the history of the Cross River State House of Assembly.
Speaking during the celebration at the Speaker’s residence, Hon. Owuna said that, to the best of his knowledge, no Speaker from the First to the Tenth Assembly had ever received such a remarkable demonstration of love and solidarity from the Assembly family.
“I believe that from the First to the Tenth Assembly, no Speaker has been celebrated in this manner by the Assembly. This speaks volumes about the relationship Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem has built with his aides, staff, and political associates through his humility, accessibility, and people-oriented leadership,” Owuna said.
He noted that the unprecedented celebration was a reflection of the Speaker’s leadership style, humility, and the genuine affection he has earned from those who work closely with him.
According to the lawmaker, the outpouring of goodwill was not orchestrated but was a spontaneous expression of appreciation for a leader who has remained approachable, supportive, and committed to the welfare of both lawmakers and Assembly staff.
The surprise birthday celebration attracted aides, Assembly staff, political associates including the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Chief Emmanuel Ironbar, Assembly members and candidates, APC chapter chairmen, friends, and well-wishers, who offered prayers, goodwill messages, birthday gifts, and heartfelt tributes in honour of the Speaker.
The event featured cutting of the birthday cake, goodwill messages, prayers and worship songs, and a continued commitment by attendees to keep on supporting the Speaker as he provides leadership to the Tenth Cross River State House of Assembly.
