Immediate past governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke, was, yesterday, given a hero’s welcome at his Itigidi, Abi Local Government Area, country home after eight years of service as governor.

Led in a procession-like walk from his residence to Community Secondary School, Itigidi, venue of the reception and recognition, by enthusiastic and ecstatic elders, market women, age groups, youths, as well as cultural troupes bedecked in traditional regalia, chants of “Ete Aman Afor”, meaning, our father has come back home, rent the air.

Welcoming guests and visitors alike, about about five hundred meters away from Imoke’s home were colourful banners with inscriptions such as ‘Ete Aman Afor’, ‘Welcome home our illustrious son’ by Efa Age Grade, ‘Welcome back home after a spell of meritorious service to your state and country’.

Lauding Imoke for what they described as his outstanding and unparalleled achievements and service to the people of Cross River State, President of Itigidi Community General Assembly, Elder Edward Elemi Ikpete, said: “We have observed with great delight the extent of development executed in the state by your administration. We also thank you for your achievements and magnanimity to mankind as well as your immense contribution to the growth of society and welfare of humanity.”

Responding, the former governor thanked the people for the honour done him. He said the recognition meant more to him than anything else.