Leadership, Unity and Self-Determination in Cross River State: A Historical Perspective

Abstract

This chapter discusses the synergy between leadership, unity and self-determination using the Cross River State’s experience. It argues that one of the most important symbols that can ignite unity or disunity is leadership, understood in this context as a two-way process that motivates leaders and followers to identify and pursue common goals and general aspirations. It is argued here that only a synergy between leaders and followers that can harness and optimize the fortunes and developmental strides of a people. As the analysis here shows, unity of action and purpose was crucial for the creation, growth and development of Cross River State. The reflections and introspections in this study are expected to serve as the anvil for the people of Cross River State to rededicate themselves to the ideals of their past heroes, whose successes in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds should serve as testament to the fact that any people, united in purpose, vision, mission and action will always overcome the obstacles on their way, however daunting. We begin with the birth and early history of Cross River State.