Critique of the OBO Movement
The recent publication associated with a group calling itself the “OBO Movement” has raised eyebrows due to its misleading claims. This organization appears to be a veiled attempt by the discredited political figures, Senator Ben Ayade and Hon. Legor Idagbo, to reshape the narrative surrounding the Cross River North senatorial seat. The assertion that this position should exclusively belong to the Obudu, Bekwara, and Obanliku federal constituencies lacks historical basis and public consensus, and is nothing more than a fabricated narrative born from desperation.
The Record of Defeat
Legor Idagbo’s political tenure has been marked by a series of failed ambitions. Having served as the Bekwara Local Council Chairman and an eight-year member of the House of Representatives, he faced resounding defeat in his own constituency during the 2023 general elections. Across all ten wards of Bekwara Local Government Area, voters made their displeasure known, highlighting his lack of connection with the very people he aimed to represent.
Similarly, Senator Ben Ayade, who had previously held office as governor, lost his Senate election bid in a striking downfall, losing 42 out of 51 wards to Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe. Despite a background that included a four-year term in the Senate, Ayade’s time in office was marred by deteriorating infrastructure, unpaid salaries, and escalating debt burdens, leading voters to decisively reject him.
The Myths of Zoning
The notion that the Senate seat ought to be reserved for Obudu, Bekwara, and Obanliku stems from a self-serving premise lacking legitimacy. Zoning arrangements should be based on fairness and mutual agreement rather than the unfounded claims of two politicians eager to revise previously established norms due to their own electoral failures. Attempting to enforce such a zoning structure without the consent of stakeholders would not only be inequitable, but also infracts on the constitutional rights of candidates like Jarigbe.
Allegations of Bribery and Accusations of Misconduct
It is concerning that, while some individuals seek to persuade influential leaders to transfer the Senate seat to their constituency, they simultaneously accuse Senator Jarigbe of engaging in financial misconduct. This hypocrisy underscores a troubling trend where those with questionable motivations cast stones at others. As Jarigbe campaigns on strengthening party ties and grassroots efforts, his detractors remain entrenched in outdated outreach tactics, which ultimately reveals their own insecurities.
The Challenge to Accountability
The message to Ayade and Idagbo is clear: this culture of disinformation and slander must cease. Senator Jarigbe is committed to serving the public and focuses on the task at hand, unbothered by distractions. Politicians must engage directly with their constituents, rather than relying on backdoor manipulations. The people of Cross River North are discerning, and they remember the squandered opportunities presented by these figures.
The People’s Choice
Senator Jarigbe possesses the undeniable right to contest for any political office, and attempts to undermine his candidacy through fabricated claims will not withstand public scrutiny. The time for ineffectual leadership has passed. The accountability associated with past governance failures looms large, and no amount of propaganda can distort the memories of voters who are eager for a change.
A Call to the Public
Citizens are urged to disregard the unfounded allegations propagated by the OBO Movement. Senator Jarigbe is ready to face any challenger at the polls, bolstered by a strong base of community support. The era of political manipulation and incompetence is drawing to a close in Cross River North.
Signed:
Team Yari Media
