2027: Nkoyo Toyo Unpacks Atiku’s Economic Recovery Plan

Ukorebi Esien  | August 26, 2026

CALABAR —As Nigeria moves towards the 2027 general elections, former federal lawmaker, political activist, and Gubernatorial Candidate for African Democratic Congress, ADC in Cross River State, Nkoyo Toyo, has highlighted the economic recovery agenda of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, describing it as an alternative pathway to rebuilding the Nigerian economy.

Toyo, speaking during the commencement of the ADC presidential campaign activities in Cross River State, said Atiku’s economic philosophy was anchored on moving Nigeria away from an import-dependent and consumption-driven economy towards production, manufacturing, job creation and exports.

According to her, sustainable economic recovery must not be achieved at the expense of ordinary Nigerians, stressing that government policies should ultimately translate into lower living costs, affordable energy, employment opportunities and improved purchasing power.

The ADC, in its position on Atiku’s economic recovery plan, said the country could not achieve sustainable prosperity by continually imposing the burden of economic adjustment on households, businesses and states.

A major component of the plan, according to the party, is the restructuring of Nigeria’s political and economic architecture through greater devolution of powers from the Federal Government to the states.

The party argued that restructuring should involve reducing the scope of federal powers, reviewing the Exclusive Legislative List, strengthening fiscal federalism and giving states greater responsibility and authority over resources and development.

It also advocated constitutional reforms and the devolution of appropriate security responsibilities, including the establishment of state police subject to professional standards, human-rights safeguards and independent oversight.

Toyo and the ADC maintained that greater allocations from Abuja should not be mistaken for fiscal federalism, arguing that genuine fiscal autonomy would require states to have the authority and responsibility to generate, control and invest their own resources.

On security, the party linked Nigeria’s insecurity to broader economic challenges, including poverty, unemployment, rural underdevelopment and the destruction of livelihoods.

It therefore proposed an approach that combines professional policing and intelligence gathering with economic opportunities that can reduce the vulnerability of communities to criminal networks.

The ADC also called for modern intelligence systems, forensic capacity, improved communications infrastructure, databases and stronger inter-agency coordination as part of a comprehensive security reform.

On fuel and energy, Toyo's presentation also touched on the possibility of leveraging Nigeria’s domestic refining capacity to reduce the burden of imported refined petroleum products.

She argued that the existence of local refineries could provide an opportunity for government to develop mechanisms that support domestic supply and cushion the impact of energy costs on Nigerians.

The party further said Atiku’s economic agenda would place emphasis on an economy that produces rather than merely consumes, while combining fiscal responsibility with social protection, investment with inclusion and economic growth with shared prosperity.

The ADC said the success of any economic policy should ultimately be measured by its impact on citizens, particularly through food and transport costs, energy affordability, jobs, stronger businesses and improved living standards.

It also framed the 2027 election as a choice between maintaining the existing direction and pursuing what it described as a fundamentally different approach to Nigeria’s economic, political and security challenges.

The party said Nigeria needed a federation that devolves power rather than concentrating it in Abuja, states with genuine fiscal autonomy, a security architecture based on intelligence and professional policing, and constitutional reforms capable of strengthening democratic accountability.

It added that leadership should be judged by integrity, transparency, experience, verifiable records and the ability of public institutions to withstand scrutiny.

The ADC ultimately argued that Nigeria requires a redistribution of wealth, power, responsibility and resources, rather than what it described as a mere redistribution of poverty and bureaucratic structures.

“My Long Silence Is Not Foolishness” — Akpanke Breaks Silence on Viral Video

Ukorebi Esien  | August 26, 2026

ABUJA — The member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Peter Akpanke, has broken his silence on a viral video and other allegations circulating against him, insisting that his decision not to respond to his critics should not be interpreted as weakness.

Akpanke, in a statement titled “My Long Silence Is Not Foolishness,” said some of the issues currently being circulated on social media had already been resolved, while describing the controversies as part of what he called repeated attempts to smear his image and undermine his political career.

He said anyone who believed they had been defrauded should approach the appropriate government agencies, promising to make himself available for investigation.

Below is the full statement:

MY LONG SILENCE IS NOT FOOLISHNESS

When I was elected into the House of Representatives about three years ago, I accepted the responsibility wholeheartedly as an act of fate and as a golden opportunity to serve my good people and contribute my quota to the development and advancement of OBO Federal Constituency.

Since I assumed office, this commitment to serve has been the mantra that has constituted the guiding spirit to which I have been tenaciously glued, and has been the basis for the modest strides we have witnessed amidst daunting challenges.

Over time, it has become a trend, and an ugly one indeed, that in spite of my resolve not to join issues with anybody in the course of the execution of my mandate, some people have arrogated to themselves the unethical position to castigate me, sometimes directly and in most cases through sponsorship of unprovoked attacks from their cronies, to smear my image and discredit me in the eyes of my constituents.

Even when I took the wise decision to join the ruling party, the social media was agog with sponsored despicable publications all targeted at running me down.

Today, it is in the public domain that recently, the PDP candidate for the House of Representatives position in my Constituency, granted an ill-conceived interview, in which, in addition to delving into attacks on my private life, he declared that there is no project to show for the three years I have so far represented OBO Federal Constituency.

As an elder brother whom I respect, I sincerely sympathize with his unconsciousness.

In all the above provocations, it is incontrovertible that I have deliberately maintained rare calmness, bearing in mind that nobody's personal opinion can be representative of the entire perception of my entire constituents.

I have also been wisely guided by the dictum that whoever is worthy of respect by me deserves to be respected even when the person opts for self-disrespect.

I make bold to declare that my modest strides and accomplishments are in the public domain for the larger public to perceive and assess.

Be that as it may, for some days, a video has been trending on social media concerning a purported transaction with one of my former staff, for which I had long intervened and settled.

The same content creator had published another video about a month ago with false, incoherent claims about another transaction, claiming that an assault was orchestrated by me.

I know that some people have already rashly capitalized on the lopsided trending video to ventilate their emotions and rain aspersions on me.

I bear them no grudge as they are entitled to their actions and they also have a duty to fulfill the desires of their paymasters.

For my teeming supporters who have refused to be swayed or distracted by all the distractions, I deeply appreciate your confidence in me, with a strong pledge that I shall not disappoint you.

I charge you all to remain glued to our vision and resist all provocations. Even if you have to respond to the fabrications, it should please be done with maximum civility to teach our detractors that though we are younger, we are wiser.

To the generality of OBO constituents, I hereby reassure you that I am still glued to the goal of achieving the best possible for us, no matter for how many times our detractors continue to change the narratives to suit their purpose.

Some people have even become more desperate about stalling my reelection than about the attainment of their own desires.

The good thing is that nobody is God and nobody can become God.

Every politician must also not forget that his life is in the public domain. The fact that some people have opted to maintain table manners is no weakness.

Some of the issues currently touted on social media are issues that have already been resolved.

None of my transactions with the people in question was done on social media. However, as a law-abiding citizen, if there is anybody who feels defrauded by me, such a person is hereby requested to approach the relevant agencies of government, and I shall make myself available for investigation.

To God be the glory.

2027: Group Endorses Tinubu, Otu, Other APC Candidates, Inaugurate Wards Coordinators

Ukorebi Esien  | August  24, 2026

CALABAR — A grassroot sypport group identified as Ideal Progressive Movement has announced its endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Cross River State Governor, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu, and other candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The group made its position known at its inaugural meeting, where members and supporters pledged their support for the APC and its candidates.

The endorsement was formally announced by AIG Chief Enene Okon (Rtd.), on behalf of the movement, as part of efforts to mobilise support for the party ahead of the elections.

A motion endorsing the decision was moved by Comr. Peter Okon, Special Adviser on Security to the Executive Chairman of Bakassi Local Government Area, and was supported by members present.

The meeting also witnessed the inauguration of ward coordinators for the movement, in a move aimed at strengthening its grassroots structure and expanding its presence across communities.

The inauguration was performed by the Executive Vice Chairman of Bakassi LGA, Hon. Princess Christiana Eso, who charged the newly inaugurated coordinators to see their appointments as a responsibility to the movement and the communities they represent.

Eso urged the coordinators to commence mobilisation in their respective wards, engage community stakeholders and work towards strengthening the movement's grassroots structures ahead of the 2027 elections.

The movement said the new ward coordinators would be responsible for mobilising members, engaging communities and promoting peaceful political participation.

It also reaffirmed its support for Tinubu, Otu, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Rt. Hon. Joseph Bassey and Andrea Ekeng Inyang as APC candidates for the 2027 elections.

The Ideal Progressive Movement said the inauguration of the ward coordinators marked the beginning of a coordinated grassroots mobilisation campaign, urging members to remain united, disciplined and focused as preparations for the elections gather momentum.

The group said it was committed to working for the success of the APC and its candidates in the 2027 general elections.

2027: Cross River Consultative Forum Hails Otu, Ita-Giwa, Yari’s APC Campaign Council Appointments

 

Ukorebi Esien | August 24, 2026

CALABAR — Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) has congratulated Governor Bassey Edet Otu, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa and former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari on their appointments to the All Progressives Congress (APC) 2027 Presidential Campaign Council.

The forum described the appointments as a recognition of the contributions, experience and political influence of the three Cross River-linked leaders and other progressive leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued in Calabar and signed by its Chairman, Barr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, and Secretary, Dr. Julius Ochim Okputu, the CRSCF specifically congratulated Senator Yari on his appointment as Director-General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council.

The forum said Yari’s political experience, organisational capacity and commitment to the APC made him well positioned to coordinate the party’s presidential campaign.

It also described Governor Otu’s appointment as South-South Zonal Campaign Coordinator as an acknowledgement of his role in strengthening the APC in the region.

According to the forum, Otu, as the first elected APC governor in the South-South, has contributed to the expansion and consolidation of the party’s influence in the geopolitical zone through what it described as strategic leadership and political mobilisation.

The CRSCF further noted that the governor had played active roles in previous APC gubernatorial campaign efforts, including campaigns that contributed to the party’s victories in states such as Imo and Edo.

The forum also celebrated the appointment of Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, popularly known as Mama Bakassi, as a member of the Advisory Body to the Chairman of the Campaign Council.

It described the former senator representing Cross River South as a seasoned stateswoman whose legislative experience, advocacy for the people of Bakassi and the Niger Delta, and contributions to women’s empowerment and national unity would be valuable to the campaign.

The forum said the appointments demonstrated the confidence of the APC leadership in the capacity and contributions of Cross Riverians to the party and national politics.

It described the appointments as a collective honour for Cross River State and called on the beneficiaries and other stakeholders to see them as an opportunity for greater service.

The CRSCF assured President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the campaign council leadership and the APC of its support towards the party’s campaign ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

“The people of Cross River stand ready to work diligently towards the resounding victory of the APC in the 2027 general elections,” the forum stated.

The statement was issued in Calabar on August 23, 2026.

Legal Storm Brews in NDC as Aggrieved Aspirants Reject Cross River Primary Process

Ukorebi Esien | May 31, 2026

OBUBRA – A fresh crisis appears to be brewing within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Cross River State as aggrieved aspirants and party stakeholders threaten legal action over alleged irregularities in the conduct of the party's primary election for the Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency.

The controversy centers on the participation of Mr. Ken Egbas in the party's primary election held on May 29, despite claims by stakeholders that he was not among the aspirants cleared by the party's screening committee to contest the House of Representatives ticket.

Documents sighted by party members reportedly indicate that Dr. Tawo Obah Edom was the only aspirant who successfully passed the screening exercise and was duly cleared to contest for the ticket. Stakeholders argue that, based on the party's established guidelines, Dr. Edom should have emerged as the party's candidate through affirmation by delegates and party leaders.

However, the unexpected appearance of Ken Egbas on the ballot has triggered widespread dissatisfaction among party faithful, with many questioning the transparency and credibility of the primary process.

Several stakeholders have described the development as a violation of the party's internal procedures and a dangerous precedent capable of eroding confidence in the NDC's commitment to internal democracy.

According to sources familiar with the process, consultations are already underway among aggrieved aspirants and party members regarding possible legal options aimed at challenging the outcome of the primary election.

"The screening process is a fundamental aspect of any credible primary election. If individuals who were not cleared are allowed to participate in the process, it raises serious questions about the integrity of the exercise," a party stakeholder, who requested anonymity, stated.

The controversy has generated intense debate within the party, with some members warning that unresolved disputes could distract the NDC from its preparations for the forthcoming general elections and potentially damage its public image.

Political observers note that disputes arising from party primaries have historically resulted in prolonged litigation, disqualification of candidates, and internal divisions that often weaken political parties ahead of elections.

Stakeholders are therefore urging the party leadership to provide a comprehensive explanation regarding the circumstances surrounding Egbas's participation in the primary election and to take immediate steps to restore confidence in the process.

They insist that transparency, fairness, and strict adherence to party rules remain essential to preserving the credibility of the party and maintaining the trust of members and supporters.

As of press time, efforts to obtain official reactions from the state leadership of the NDC and Mr. Ken Egbas were unsuccessful. The party has yet to issue a formal statement addressing the allegations and concerns raised by stakeholders.

With tensions rising and legal threats becoming increasingly likely, political watchers say the manner in which the NDC leadership handles the dispute could significantly influence party unity and its electoral fortunes in Cross River State.

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A Rebuttal To The So-called “Open Letter” Against His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu

Press Statement | May 16 2026

 ...Desperation Overrides Reason, Propaganda Becomes The Last Refuge

The attention of concerned stakeholders and lovers of peace in Akamkpa Local Government Area has been drawn to the mischievous and emotionally charged “open letter” purportedly addressed to His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State.

Ordinarily, such a publication drenched in bitterness, political frustration, and deliberate distortion of facts would not deserve a response. However, silence in the face of calculated falsehood may wrongly be interpreted as consent. It therefore becomes necessary to put the records straight and expose the hypocrisy, desperation, and arrogance behind the said publication.

First and foremost, the so-called open letter is not only misleading, but a direct insult on the office, personality, and integrity of the Governor of Cross River State, a man who has consistently demonstrated uncommon patience, fairness, maturity, and commitment to democratic inclusion. 

It is laughable and unfortunate that individuals who were given every opportunity to present their grievances through the appropriate channels suddenly resorted to emotional blackmail and public propaganda after failing to manipulate the process to suit their selfish interests.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Governor never shut his doors against consultation, dialogue, or engagement. Both parties involved were given equal opportunities to state their positions, air their concerns, and seek peaceful resolutions. Rather than approach the process with maturity and political wisdom, their benefactor chose the path of needless confrontation, fault-finding, and political arrogance, even where no offence existed.

In the end, he merely succeeded in shooting himself on the foot.

One cannot continue to insult leadership, undermine party structure, disregard political elders, and still expect sympathy from the same system one persistently seeks to ridicule. Politics is not built on tantrums, entitlement mentality, or media intimidation. It is built on respect, loyalty, consultation, patience, and capacity.

The claim that “few people cannot decide the future of 140,000 people” is not only deceptive but intellectually dishonest. Political leadership across the world thrives on consultation, consensus building, party structures, and internal mechanisms recognized by law and tradition. Democracy is not synonymous with mob sentiment or social media agitation sponsored by disgruntled elements seeking relevance.

Across the 18 LGAs, decision of who should represent them are agreed upon through consensus from the elders and presented to the Governor, or through interface with the Governor which has been accepted by all. It's quite unfortunate that the Commissioner for Works & Infrastructure through his media aide, Marcel Edem has continued to fan the ember of hatred, dissatisfaction, heating the polity and inciting the public against the same administration his boss, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Ankpo Pius is a major beneficiary.

Calling for open primary when a consensus has been agreed upon  and pronounced by the Governor, is further questioning the wisdom of the Governor to seek the path of peace. 

Calling for open primary is akin to returning Akamkpa to the gory days in Akamkpa of political violence. 

Ironically, these person who are crying about exclusion, they were the same individuals who ignored wise counsel, rejected reconciliation efforts, and arrogantly dismissed political elders when peace was still achievable.

This is exactly why the Governor, in his wisdom and fatherly disposition, gave the timeless instruction:

“Go and learn how to respect your elders.”

That statement was not an insult. It was advice rooted in experience, discipline, political culture, and moral responsibility. Sadly, rather than reflect on those words, some individuals chose to escalate tensions through blackmail, propaganda, and public grandstanding.

Respect for elders is a foundational value in African society and remains critical in leadership and political engagement. No society progresses where younger political actors continuously insult, undermine, and challenge constituted authority simply because events did not favour their ambitions.

Furthermore, the attempt to portray Akamkpa as a divided and oppressed political entity is completely false. Akamkpa remains peaceful, politically active, and fully aligned with the vision of the Governor and the progressive direction of the administration.

The Governor’s “People First” mantra is evident across Cross River State through infrastructural development, strategic appointments, empowerment programmes, and deliberate efforts to carry all stakeholders along. Akamkpa has not been excluded from these gains. Therefore, it is dishonest for a few frustrated political actors to weaponize the emotions of the people simply because personal ambitions did not materialize as expected.

Those hiding under the guise of “concerned stakeholders” must understand that democracy also demands responsibility, decorum, and political maturity. You cannot claim to seek peace while simultaneously insulting leadership and attempting to incite public resentment against constituted authority.

His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, remains a listening leader, a democrat, and a statesman whose calm disposition should never be mistaken for weakness. The Governor has shown fairness to all parties and continues to prioritize unity, stability, and the collective interest of Cross River State above individual political desperation.

History will indeed remember this moment, not for propaganda and emotional outbursts, but for the Governor’s maturity in the face of provocation and for the lessons it teaches about humility, respect, and political discipline.

Akamkpa does not belong to noise makers. Akamkpa does not belong to political blackmailers. Akamkpa belongs to responsible leaders and peaceful citizens committed to unity, progress, and development.

Those who truly love Akamkpa must abandon bitterness, sheath their swords, respect constituted authority, and embrace constructive engagement rather than inflammatory propaganda.

No amount of sponsored outrage can substitute for political wisdom. No amount of emotional blackmail can replace respect. And no amount of noise can override disciplined leadership.

E-Signed,

Concerned Progressives and Peace Loving Stakeholders of Akamkpa Local Government Area