Ukorebi Esien | May 25, 2026
CALABAR – A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Yakurr State Constituency 1, James Ibor, has pledged to champion legislative independence and stronger oversight of the executive arm of government if elected, insisting that he would not stand alone in advocating for accountability and good governance.
Ibor made the remarks while speaking on governance and the role of opposition lawmakers shortly after the emergence of Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong as the PDP governorship candidate for the 2027 elections in Cross River State.
Responding to concerns about operating as a lone opposition voice in a legislature that may be dominated by the ruling party, Ibor dismissed the notion, stressing that his strength would come from constituents, civil society groups, and citizens demanding transparency.
“I will not be a lone voice. I have the people who will elect me and support me till tomorrow. I cannot be a lone voice when the civil society will be backing me and when my constituents and many other people who support good governance will be behind me,” he said.
The PDP candidate argued that legislative institutions across the country have increasingly become extensions of the executive arm, thereby weakening their constitutional responsibility of scrutinizing government policies and protecting public interest.
According to him, democracy thrives when lawmakers perform effective oversight functions and challenge policies where necessary, rather than merely endorsing executive decisions.
Ibor expressed concern over what he described as the absence of robust legislative debates and independent review of government proposals, warning that weak opposition contributes to poor governance outcomes and growing public dissatisfaction.
He maintained that elected representatives are entrusted with protecting citizens’ interests and ensuring prudent management of public resources.
“The reason people give their mandate and pay taxes is for elected officials to represent their interests. Legislators should be accountable to the people, not personal interests,” he stated.
Positioning himself as a reform-minded candidate, Ibor said his motivation for seeking office stems from the need to restore public confidence in governance and strengthen institutional checks and balances in Cross River State.
He further noted that meaningful development can only be achieved where there is transparency, constructive criticism, and a legislature willing to hold the executive accountable.
The comments come amid heightened political activities in Cross River State ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition parties intensifying campaigns around governance reforms, accountability, and economic development.
Political observers say debates around legislative independence and oversight are likely to feature prominently in the state’s electoral discourse as parties seek to convince voters on their governance agenda.
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