Bassey Otu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Cross River, has suspended all his political activities.

Mr Otu said he was suspending the activities to mourn with the families of fun seekers who died in a car crash during the bikers carnival on Tuesday in Calabar.

“To honour the dead, I have decided to suspend all my political activities till further notice to mourn with the families of the injured and those who lost their lives,” said the gubernatorial flag bearer.

He announced this in a statement on Wednesday.

“The news of the unfortunate and tragic death of some residents in Cross River who left their homes to watch the bikers parade came to me as a rude shock,” explained the APC governorship candidate. “I deeply commiserate with the families of those who lost their lives in that tragic but avoidable incident and pray that the good Lord comfort them.”

Mr Otu added, “I totally condemn this unfortunate and avoidable death of innocent citizens of our dear state. I join the government and other well-meaning residents in Cross River in calling for a thorough investigation into the matter with the aim of ensuring that those found culpable are made to face the full wrath of the law.”

Meanwhile, FRSC sector commander Maikano Hassan confirmed seven people died, and 29 were injured.

Ms Hassan confirmed the number of casualties to include 21 male adults, three women, two male children and three female children. 

(NAN)