Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr, senator representing Cross River South Senatorial District, has published a written rejection to a political suggestion being made that someone of Cross River South extraction must gird his loins and snatch the state gubernatorial ticket from incumbent governor, Bassey Edet Otu, in the 2027 elections.
Austin Ibok, a former aide to former CRS governor, Ben Ayade, had suggested in a written and published piece, “2027: A Wake-Up Call for True Leadership and Change in Cross River”, that Ekpenyong, Geshom Bassey, Bassey Eyo Ndem, and Ben Akak, should among themselves, “… begin preparations for the 2027 elections. No law mandates a governor must serve two terms. It is not an automatic right, but rather a privilege that must be earned through performance. We need a strong, united front to challenge Governor Otu and the APC in 2027. Whoever among you steps forward must commit to completing the Southern Senatorial District’s rightful eight-year term before handing over to the Central Senatorial District, as fairness and equity demand.”
In a swift reaction, the senator addressed Ibok directly, emphasizing that, “I have stated on numerous occasions, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu is the leader of the APC in Cross River State and has my full support.”
“I reject this suggestion. These assertions are not only misleading but aimed at undermining my collaborative efforts with the Governor. I remain dedicated to my responsibilities in the National Assembly, focusing on the welfare of my constituents and supporting the Governor’s initiatives for the betterment of Cross River State.”
However, Ibok did not let Ekpenyong’s reply fly out without a direct response. “I understand your position and where you are coming from. It is clear that you are trying to protect your relationship with the Governor and, quite possibly, secure your return ticket. While that is a politically strategic move, I urge you to remember that governance is ultimately about service to the people, not personal ambitions or allegiances.”
“It is important to note that you are not the only stakeholder in the state or the Southern Senatorial District who has a say in determining who will lead us in 2027. Leadership decisions go beyond individual interests, alliances, or influence, and as time unfolds, the dynamics of the situation will reveal themselves. What we need now is governance that prioritizes development and progress, not storytelling or empty rhetoric.”
“However, let me assure you, if you are indeed the alternative we need for real change and development in Cross River State, the youth, leaders, and even the gods of the land will rise and come for you,” Ibok stated.
“The senator has in plain terms stated his position and it will remain so. I think it is too early in the morning for distractions built around 2027 to be bandied around. Gov. Otu and the senator have governance and legislative commitments to fulfill and they should be left alone to do just that; for everyone’s good”, a close associate of the senator, who does not want his name in print, told www.calitown.com.
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