On behalf of the sons and daughters of Biase, we sincerely and specially appreciate Hon. Engr. Francis Ogban for his remarkable December outreach to his constituents.
Once again, Hon. Engr. Ogban has demonstrated that representation in the House of Assembly goes far beyond legislative duties such as passing bills or moving motions. Through intentional action, he has shown that leadership is about touching lives. Through his December outreach, he made Christmas and New Year celebrations possible for many Biase sons and daughters—young and old alike—especially those who openly testified that without his kind gesture, they would have had no hope of celebrating the festive season like others.
At a time when festive support was largely expected to come in the form of rice, particularly with His Excellency the Governor and other political office holders reaching out to the people, Hon. Engr. Ogban, in his usual innovative and people-centred manner, chose a different path. Understanding the diverse needs of families during the Yuletide, he thought beyond the norm and opted to empower his constituents with cash support, enabling them to meet essential needs and truly experience the Season of Sweetness.
In a remarkable show of humility and loyalty, he took time to appreciate the Executive Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Apostle Prince Bassey Otu, whose leadership, financial support, and constant motivation have inspired him and other members of the House of Assembly to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach the grassroots, especially during the festive season.
Through his outreach to the top level of leadership in Biase across the 11 wards, he reassured leaders that their sacrifices were seen, valued, and appreciated. At the second level of leadership, 33 representatives (three per ward) from all wards were recognised and supported.
He also reached out to 44 young Biase men and women, whom he fondly refers to as his peers (four per ward), showing that the future of Biase truly matters to him. Not relenting, he extended support to 55 individuals classified as critical stakeholders (five per ward), acknowledging their importance in community growth and stability.
The ward party structures were equally remembered, as 77 ward executives (seven per ward) across Biase benefited from his generosity. The Chapter 7 Working Committee was also supported. Our councillors were not left out, as their efforts in promoting unity and supporting the Executive Chairman of Biase Local Government Area were recognised and appreciated.
The APC Women also shared in his generosity, alongside the Biase Dynamic Women, further reflecting his inclusive and people-oriented leadership style.
A particularly touching moment was when he discovered that over 30 sons of Biase, who were not captured under any beneficiary category, had nevertheless come out in solidarity to express their gratitude. Moved by this show of unity, Hon. Ogban immediately classified the group as “Ward 12” and provided support packages to assist with their transportation—underscoring his compassion and responsiveness to the people. This served as a powerful reminder that true leadership sees the people, feels their sacrifice, and responds with compassion.
Notably, the Honourable Member never closed his gates throughout the festive period, as he spent hundreds of thousands of naira supporting over 50 additional visitors who trooped to his Ikot Effangha residence, all of whom joyfully drew from his well of generosity and open heart.
Most remarkable is the fact that all these gestures were carried out not out of abundance, but out of deep passion and genuine love for the people of Biase.
In total, over ₦9,000,000 was spent by Hon. Engr. Francis Ogban to celebrate Christmas with his constituents—an uncommon demonstration of leadership with a human face.
For this outstanding act of service, we say thank you.
May God Almighty continue to bless, strengthen, and preserve you for the continued progress and development of Biase Local Government Area.
— Concerned Constituents
