Boki 2 Assembly Race: Mammoth Crowd Welcomes Leo Kidze as ADC Momentum Grows in Bunyia/Okubuchi ward
By Core Reporters
The political atmosphere in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State came alive on Saturday, May 22, as supporters and residents of Bunyia/Okubuchi Ward turned out in large numbers in a massive show of support for the African Democratic Congress (ADC)’s candidate for Boki 2 State Constituency, Hon. Leo Kidze, following his emergence as the party’s flag bearer for the 2027 Cross River State House of Assembly election.
The mammoth crowd, made up of youths, women, community leaders and party faithful, gathered at strategic locations within the ward to celebrate Kidze’s emergence, describing him as “the people’s choice” and a grassroots politician with the capacity to provide quality representation for the constituency.
Hon. Kidze was officially affirmed as the ADC candidate during the party’s primary election held in Ikom on Friday, May 21, where delegates unanimously endorsed his candidature amid jubilation and chants from supporters.
Speaking during an interaction with party faithful and residents, Kidze expressed appreciation for the overwhelming support and confidence reposed in him by the people, pledging to run an inclusive, issue-driven and people-oriented campaign focused on development, empowerment and effective representation.
He assured constituents that if elected into the Cross River State House of Assembly, he would champion legislation and motions aimed at addressing infrastructure deficits, youth empowerment through sports and skills development, rural development, education and healthcare challenges affecting communities in Boki 2.
According to him, the constituency must embrace purposeful leadership that reflects the aspirations and expectations of the grassroots.
“Our people deserve responsive representation and leadership that listens, understands and acts in the best interest of the people. I am encouraged by the massive support from Bunyia/Okubuchi Ward and Buda Ward. I remain committed to serving with integrity, accountability and dedication,” Kidze stated.
A party stakeholder, Hon. Raphael Ekpang, who attended the gathering upon Kidze’s arrival, described the ADC candidate as a grassroots mobiliser with deep connection to the people, noting that his emergence has already altered the political dynamics in the constituency.
Several community leaders and youths who spoke during the event said the impressive turnout demonstrated the readiness of the people to support a candidate they believe understands their challenges and possesses the vision to attract meaningful development to the area.
Reacting to the growing political momentum, the Chairman of Bunyia/Okubuchi Ward, Edward Enyia, said the rising popularity of Hon. Leo Kidze has reshaped the contest for the Boki 2 State Assembly seat as consultations and grassroots engagements continue to gather momentum across the constituency.
Observers say Kidze’s emergence has also revived his political structure known as “I Support,” a movement that gained traction during his 2020 bid for the chairmanship position of Boki Local Government Area before he was denied the party ticket at the time.
Since clinching the ADC ticket for the Boki 2 Assembly race, supporters of the “I Support” movement, alongside a growing number of residents across the constituency, have continued to mobilise ahead of the official commencement of campaigns expected in September, with the main election scheduled for February 2027.
