Ukorebi Esien | May 25, 2026
CALABAR – A candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Yakurr State Constituency 1, James Ibor, has criticised the performance of legislators in Cross River State, alleging that many elected representatives prioritize personal interests over the welfare of the people.
Speaking shortly after the emergence of Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong as the PDP governorship candidate for the 2027 election, Ibor lamented what he described as the declining independence of legislative institutions, accusing lawmakers of acting as extensions of the executive arm of government.
According to him, effective governance requires robust legislative oversight, independent scrutiny of policies, and representation driven by public interest rather than personal gain.
“Our legislators are representing their pockets. The reason why, as soon as they are inaugurated, they start collecting loans, and you see buildings springing up everywhere. Our institutions are weak,” he said.
Ibor argued that legislative houses at the local, state, and national levels have increasingly lost their oversight function, claiming that executive proposals often pass without critical examination.
“Every executive bill that leaves the state house to the legislative house goes there with an envelope. Anytime you hear them fight, it means somebody has diverted that envelope. There is no robust argument, examination, or review of proposals,” he alleged.
The PDP chieftain linked the situation to what he described as poor development outcomes and rising public debt, insisting that weak opposition and ineffective legislative checks have contributed to governance challenges.
He maintained that legislators are elected and funded by taxpayers to defend the interests of constituents, stressing that democratic institutions fail when representatives abandon accountability.
“The reason why the people extend their power and pay taxes to keep you in the National Assembly or House of Assembly is so you represent their interests,” he stated.
Ibor, who identified himself as a civil society advocate, vowed to champion transparency and stronger legislative independence if elected, saying he would remain focused on holding the executive accountable.
Addressing concerns about functioning as an opposition figure in a legislature dominated by other interests, he dismissed fears of isolation.
“I will not be a lone voice. I have the people who will elect me and the civil society supporting good governance behind me,” he added.
His remarks come amid increasing political activities in Cross River State ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition parties intensifying criticism of the current governance structure while positioning themselves as alternatives to the ruling party.
0 comments: