Pat Phil | November 27, 2025
CALABAR – In the political landscape of Cross River State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is currently facing a critical juncture as stakeholders advocate for the retention of the party chairmanship in the Northern Senatorial District. This appeal comes amidst calls for the resignation of the current APC chairman, Barr. Alphonsus Eba, who hails from Yala local government area.
Cross River State has a rich political history characterized by an unwritten but widely respected rotational zoning formula that has guided its governance since 1999. This principle dictates that the governorship and key party positions rotate among the three senatorial districts: South, Central, and North. The practice aims to promote inclusivity and fairness, ensuring that every senatorial zone has an opportunity to lead.
Previous Governorship and Chairmanship Patterns in Cross River State:
Donald Duke (1999-2007). The Southern Senatorial District produced the governor, with Rev. Ben Ikobi from the Central District serving as the party chairman. During Duke's second term, Ambassador Soni Abang, also from the Central, took over the chairmanship.
Liyel Imoke (2007-2015). Imoke, from the Central District, saw the party chairmanship shift to the South, with Ntufam Ekpo Okon serving until he was succeeded by another southerner, Ntufam John Okon.
Ben Ayade (2015-2023). Ayade, representing the Northern District, maintained the party chairmanship in the South with Ntufam Inok Edim until Barr. Alphonsus Eba was appointed as the APC State Chairman, just before the end of Ayade's administration.
This historical pattern reveals a consistent alignment between the governorship and party leadership, reinforcing the need for stability and continuity within the APC.
As the tenure of Barr. Alphonsus Eba approaches its conclusion, the Northern Senatorial District is advocating for the retention of the chairmanship, particularly in the Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku (OBO) federal constituency. This call is not merely about senatorial representation but is rooted in the principles of fairness and political equity. The demand for the District to retain the chairmanship is fundamentally about justice. Historically, each district has had the opportunity to serve in leadership roles twice within the 8 years lifespan of each governorship and to deny the North this chance would disrupt the established norms of equity and fairness.
Thus, maintaining the current leadership structure will help to preserve unity within the party as any attempt, as being rumored, to replace the current chairman with a candidate from the South or Central zone could create a rift within the party, particularly among Northern members who would feel sidelined. Such actions would be viewed as political strong-arming and could lead to discontent and factionalism. This unhealthy resentment could undermine the party's strength heading into elections.
The tradition of allowing each senatorial zone two terms at the helm of party leadership is not just a matter of convenience; it is crucial for the political survival and sustainability of the APC. The Northern District has a right to continue its leadership role, which aligns with past practices.
As the leader of the state and a proponent of inclusive governance, Governor Otu is in a pivotal position to ensure that the principles of equity and fairness are upheld. His leadership style has been characterized by a commitment to justice and inclusion, making it imperative for him to resist pressures from vested interests seeking to disrupt the established order.
Governor Otu must intervene decisively to reinforce the party's commitment to its foundational principles. Upholding the tradition of allowing each senatorial district two terms at the helm of party leadership is essential for maintaining trust and cohesion within the APC. Any deviation from this norm would not only betray the party's values but could also jeopardize its electoral prospects.
The call for the Northern Senatorial District to retain the APC chairmanship, particularly in OBO federal constituency, is a reflection of the broader principles of equity, fairness, and political stability. As the party prepares for the upcoming elections, it is crucial to uphold the traditions that have historically preserved unity and inclusivity within Cross River State's political landscape.
As we inch closer to the Party's next Congresses, it is now the responsibility of all APC stakeholders to rally behind this cause, advocating for the retention of the chairmanship in the North. By doing so, they will not only be preserving the integrity of the party but also reinforcing the principles of justice and equity that are vital for the progress of Cross River State.
Ukorebi Esien
Editor-in-Chief,
The Daily News Ng
Lead Consultant
Achievers Center for Community Development Initiative
+2348161527978
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