Ukorebi Esien | 4th April 2025
CALABAR — The political landscape in Cross River State has been thrown into turmoil following allegations by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong Jr, the lawmaker representing the Southern Senatorial District of the state. The controversy has now taken a new turn as an aide to Governor Bassey Otu has joined the fray, demanding accountability from Senator Ekpeyong.
Senator Natasha had alleged that Senator Ekpeyong was instructed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio to transport former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to Hilton Hotel in Abuja for a secret meeting. According to her, the meeting was allegedly convened to orchestrate her recall from the Senate and, even more alarmingly, to plot an attempt on her life outside Abuja.
The allegations have triggered widespread concern among constituents of the Southern Senatorial District, with many calling for immediate clarification. Among those leading the call is Citizen Ekanem Essien, Senior Special Assistant on Digital Media to Governor Otu who has publicly questioned Senator Ekpeyong’s role in the alleged scheme.
“The people of the Southern Senatorial District did not elect Senator Ekpeyong to run personal errands or act as a chauffeur for anyone. This matter is grave, and we demand a clear explanation,” the aide stated.
Critics argue that Senator Ekpeyong’s affiliations within the Senate President makes the allegations appear plausible, adding fuel to the controversy. Many constituents have echoed the question raised by Senator Natasha: “When did Distinguished Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong Jr become a personal driver to the Senate President?”
As public scrutiny intensifies, political analysts caution that failure to address the allegations could have serious consequences for Senator Ekpeyong’s political career. Meanwhile, neither Senator Ekpeyong nor Senate President Akpabio has issued an official response to the claims.
The demand for accountability continues to grow, with calls for a Town Hall meeting where Senator Ekpeyong can clarify his position on the matter. Observers are closely watching the unfolding political drama, as the pressure on the senator mounts
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