From the wall of SSA PUBLIC AFFAIRS to the Governor of CRS: RECEPTION FOR GOVERNOR AYADE AND MATTERS ARISING

Our attention has been drawn to several commentaries on social media, to the effect that the Governor, Sen. (Prof)Ben Ayade, organised the Airport reception for his return from his trip to Abuja, last Friday, 7th Oct. 2016, upon which an empty casket was paraded at the venue, suggesting a procession for the burial of Mr. Joe Agi (SAN).
The reception was a spontaneous event masterminded and organised by all political appointees of the Governor,numbering well over one thousand as a demonstration of his good will and support. In the build up to the event, well wishers of the Governor and enthusiastic CrossRiverians joined the appointees to make a clear and resounding statement of support for the Governor's leadership. It is during this period of rowdy excitement and jubilation that some miscreants, notably our detractors infiltrated our ranks, bearing a casket with the inscription of Mr. Joe Agi.
We were, and still very saddened by the uncultured demonstration of these mischief makers and promise to subsequently take adequate measures to forestall the repeat of such ignoble acts.
For those who intend to make political capital out of this unfortunate episode, let them know that the Governor, Sen Ben Ayade is a very polished gentleman who practices politics with ethics and values the bond of friendship that is existing between him and his brother, Barr. Joe Agi (SAN). The Governor will never encourage nor support such primitive methods in advocating and advancing the cause of justice.
While we continue with and, pray for our digital Governor Sen. Ayade for God's protection, guidance and success, we state in unmistakable terms that the Governor had no idea nor encouraged the reception at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport.
As the Governor's public Affairs Adviser, I Want to state unequivocally that the confusion surrounding the parading of the empty casket at the reception venue is unfortunate and highly regrettable. On behalf of the political appointees, we take responsibility and hereby tender our unreserved apology to our illustrious brother, Barr. Joe Agi (SAN) for the embarrassment the ugly situation caused him.