By Hon. Ody Omagu
Dr Stephen Adi Odey, an epitome of humility, efficiency, integrity and selflessness stands out in all ramifications as persona of choice who is endeared to many hearts.
Within his immediate constituency which is Yache stretching to the entire northern Senatorial district and ofcourse across Cross River, Dr Odey does not just stand out but has lasting foot prints in the sands of time arising from his sheer benevolence, humanitarian activities and rare leadership qualities.
Without gainsay, there is a marked difference between a master and a leader. A master gives directives but a leader initiates ideas and leads the way. Dr Odey is a leader has gone through thick and thin and carries everybody along.
Beginning from his days as Chairman State Universal Basic Education ( SUBEB), Senator reprsenting the northern district and at some point he combined his SUBEB duties with the onerous position of Acting MD/CEO, of Cross River State Water Board has always proven his mettle and indefatigable capacity.
A workaholic, an academic per excellence with Doctorate Degrees in two cardinal fields of study: PhD in Industrial Sociology and PhD in Law, the knowledge and wisdom he brings to bear in the discharge of his duties.
When reaching out to people,he preaches about his master, the Governor of Cross River State (Sweet Prince) telling his teeming supporters the first slogan of the Governor, “People First” and encouraging them not to be distracted by the antics of any politician, that as they get home let them tell all their friends, family members, that his oga has good plans for everyone.
His work ethics, which is “Together Every One Achieves More” TEAM work gives his subordinates the confidence and leverage to contribute their quota towards achieving the target goals.
Recently when he visited the ITM ,Ugep and other institutions, it was with his top staff, this gave the management staff in those institutions the confidence to draw the attention of the Commissioner to challenges and concerns facing the Institutions without fear
This noble man with rare selfless abilities, during the yuletide season was again, singled out by Itekpa Community and bestowed with the traditional title of “IMAA Oluonyeloja 1, meaning “The Sweet Salt of the Earth”. This conferment comes after his immediate community, Uchu had bestowed on him Iyorgu 1, the light in 2022.
During the Itekpa title conferment, His Royal Highness, Ogamode Odey Ipuole, Clan Head of Itekpa with his Traditional Rulers Council said the chieftaincy award on Senator Odey is in celebration of his uncommon developmental strides and for giving employment to their sons and daughters, when he served as SUBEB Chairman.
Still in that light, in a welcome address, the President, Itekpa Development Association, Ambassador Patrick Adayi Odey, on behalf of the Itekpa Community told the Commissioner “When you do uncommon things, uncommon favours accompany you.
“Your appointment came at a right time as planned by God, because of your track record and faithful service to God and humanity.”
Also, still within the holiday season, Uchu Youths paid Dr Odey a visit where they eulogised him for his incomparable commitment and uncommon goodwill to his people through the provision of jobs and infrastructure in the community pledging their unalloyed support to him.
He also demonstrated his untiring commitment and love for his people by attending the wedding ceremony of one of hid constituents, Augustine Odey along with his wife, Monica where in his characteristic large heartedness, gave the young couple a brand new car.
By and large, Dr Odey is an asset to his people, northern Senatorial district and government of the state who should be allowed to continue to function in strategic areas to bring more glory to the state; the people and district because he is a shining light, bright in
the inside and in the outside.
