Group Alleges Plot to Unseat Acting APC Chairman, Warns of Internal Crisis

Ukorebi Esien  | January 26, 2026

IKOM – A socio-political pressure group, Ikom Grassroot Progressives, has raised alarm over what it described as a calculated plot by vested interests within the All Progressives Congress (APC) to unseat the Acting State Chairman of the party in Cross River State, Comrade Ekum Ekok Ojogu.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday, the group alleged that the move was not motivated by incompetence or failure on the part of the Acting Chairman, but by his refusal to support what it called the "illegal and reckless" removal of some elected party officers in the state.

According to the group, the alleged plot represents a dangerous departure from due process, party constitution, and internal democracy, warning that continued internal infighting could weaken the APC's structure and electoral readiness in Cross River State.

"The Acting Chairman's only offence is his insistence on doing the right thing and refusing to be used as a tool for injustice," the statement said. "Rather than respect party rules, some individuals have allegedly resorted to conspiracy, blackmail, and sabotage."

The group further expressed concern over reports that political actors from Ikom were allegedly collaborating with elements from Obudu to destabilize the party's leadership, describing such moves as divisive and short-sighted. It warned that exploiting regional sentiments for political advantage could deepen internal cracks and threaten party unity.

Ikom Grassroot Progressives noted that Comrade Ojogu is a long-standing member of the APC who has served the party in various capacities and maintained loyalty during challenging periods. The group described him as a stabilizing figure who has worked quietly to strengthen the party and maintain harmony among stakeholders.

The statement also cautioned that removing the Acting Chairman under controversial circumstances could set a dangerous precedent, where party leaders become vulnerable to coordinated pressure from aggrieved interests.

"If this plot succeeds, it will signal the collapse of discipline, loyalty, and due process within the party," the group warned, adding that a party consumed by internal battles would struggle to present a united front against opposition parties.

The group called on party elders, leaders, and stakeholders across the state to intervene and halt any actions capable of destabilizing the APC, stressing that unity and restraint are critical at this stage.

"APC in Cross River State must be bigger than personal ambition," the statement concluded, urging members to protect the party's structures and leadership in the interest of long-term stability and electoral success.

Akiba Boosts Agricultural Productivity with Over 100 Hectares of Palm Plantation in Cross River

Ukorebi Esien | January 22, 2026

ODUKPANI – In a strategic push to strengthen agricultural productivity and improve rural livelihoods, the Member representing Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency,  Hon. Bassey Akiba, has supported the establishment of over 100 hectares of oil palm plantations across communities in Cross River State through a cooperative-driven livelihood support programme.

The intervention, which cuts across oil palm, cassava, fisheries, and poultry value chains, involves the distribution of high-yield palm seedlings and agricultural inputs to registered cooperative farmers, with a clear target of ensuring that each beneficiary cultivates at least one hectare of oil palm plantation.

Speaking during the distribution exercise, Akiba disclosed that cooperative farmers received four 50kg bags of LBK 1515 fertilizer and 200 improved oil palm seedlings per cooperative, explaining that the seedlings were deliberately supplied above the required threshold to allow for replacement in case of losses.

> "Our target is that at least a cooperative farmer should have a hectare of oil palm plantation. For a hectare, what we know is that you need about 150 seedlings, but we are giving 200, just in case anything happens, so they can replace during the course of the farming season," he said.

According to the lawmaker, the programme is not a one-off distribution exercise but part of a broader livelihood support framework designed to ensure sustainability.

 "We are not just giving them what we are giving today. We will continue to work with them to ensure that the farm stands, because our idea is that when we leave, this should continue," Akiba stated.

He further revealed that the intervention would extend to cassava cooperative farmers in Adiawo, while **fisheries and poultry cooperatives would receive similar support at the council headquarters in the coming days.

One of the beneficiaries, an oil palm farmer, described the support as timely and impactful.

> "This is a great improvement to my farm. I will add it to what I have planted before, and it will increase my hectares. I am very grateful for this gesture," the farmer said.

Also speaking at the event, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba, Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Edet Otu on General Duties, described the initiative as a strategic investment that aligns with the state government's People First agenda.

> "This is not just empowerment; it is investment. Whatever you affix to the soil will bring prosperity. This intervention will enhance productivity, improve food production, and ultimately strengthen livelihoods across the constituency," Barr. Akiba said.

He noted that the programme complements the agricultural vision of the Cross River State Government at all levels.

> "His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, is deeply committed to agriculture as a pathway to economic growth. What the Honourable Member is doing here is perfectly aligned with that vision, and it complements efforts at the state and local government levels," he added.

Barr. Akiba further urged beneficiaries to make effective use of the support, stressing that sustainable empowerment requires commitment from both government and the people.

 "Empowerment must be multifaceted and sustained. The people must take this seriously so that the benefits translate into long-term prosperity and food security," he said.

As Cross River State continues to prioritise agriculture as a key driver of economic growth, Akiba's cooperative-based palm plantation initiative is expected to contribute significantly to **food security, employment generation, and sustainable rural development** across Calabar Municipality and Odukpani communities.

Ugep Polytechnic Rectorship: C'River Must Not Be Silenced Again

Community Report  | January 22, 2026

 "For a newly established federal institution, appointing a qualified indigene as Rector is not an act of exclusion but a strategy for stability, inclusion, and sustainable growth—especially when merit has been transparently established."

CALABAR – The ongoing process to appoint a substantive Rector for the newly established Federal Polytechnic, Ugep is more than an administrative exercise; it is a defining test of Nigeria's commitment to merit, equity, federal character, and institutional integrity. It is also a moment that calls for vigilance among all stakeholders in Cross River State.

There are now strong allegations that a process which was thoroughly and properly conducted in line with all extant guidelines and statutory requirements, producing a Cross Riverian who satisfied every provision and emerged as the recommended Rector, may be unlawfully circumvented. Reports indicate that despite the candidate's recommendation by the Governing Council and subsequent approval by Governor Bassey Edet Otu, an official at the Federal Ministry of Education is allegedly attempting to alter the outcome, raising grave concerns that such interference is driven by the mistaken and unacceptable notion that Cross Riverians are unfit to head federal institutions. If true, this would represent not only a breach of due process but also a troubling affront to equity and national unity

Meanwhile, across Nigeria, federal polytechnics are commonly led by qualified indigenes of their host states, a practice that has strengthened institutional stability and fostered community ownership. Institutions such as Auchi Polytechnic (Edo State), Federal Polytechnic Ilaro (Ogun State), Offa (Kwara State), Oko (Anambra State), Ekowe (Bayelsa State), Bida (Niger State), Nekede (Imo State), Kaduna Polytechnic (Kaduna State), and Yaba College of Technology (Lagos State)Federal Polytechnic idah in( kogi state) are all headed by rectors who are indigenes of, or firmly rooted in, their host states. These institutions have thrived, demonstrating that local representation and academic excellence are not mutually exclusive.

Ironically, Cross River State remains conspicuously absent at the national level of polytechnic leadership. At present, there is no Cross Riverian serving as a Rector of any federal polytechnic in Nigeria, not even in institutions domiciled within the state itself. This absence means that when critical decisions are taken at the Committee of Rectors of Polytechnics in Nigeria, Cross River State has no voice, no representation, and no institutional advocate at that strategic table.

For a new institution like Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, this reality makes the case for a qualified indigene Rector even more compelling. At its formative stage, the polytechnic requires leadership that understands the local environment, commands community trust, and can build strong partnerships essential for growth, security, and sustainability. An indigene Rector who has met all statutory requirements is uniquely positioned to provide such leadership.

It must be emphasized that advocating for an indigene Rector is not a call to lower standards. The Federal Polytechnic Act (as amended) and the guidelines of the Federal Ministry of Education clearly outline the qualifications for the office of Rector. Where a candidate emerges through a transparent, competitive, and merit-based process, and is duly recommended by the Governing Council, such a recommendation deserves respect and protection.

In this context, any attempt to alter or circumvent a concluded recommendation of the Governing Council, particularly by substituting a qualified indigene with a non-indigene, raises serious concerns. Such an action would not only undermine due process but would also amount to a direct affront to the efforts of the Cross River State Governor, who monitored and supported a free, fair, and credible selection process and gave approval based on merit. Allowing external interference to upturn that outcome would send a damaging signal about institutional autonomy and respect for state-level consensus.

This situation should serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders in Cross River State, across party lines, the Governor, federal lawmakers, political leaders, business figures, senior party members, and all lovers of the state. Protecting the integrity of this process is not about partisan politics; it is about defending fairness, inclusion, and the collective dignity of the state within the Nigerian federation.

Beyond equity, the appointment of a qualified indigene Rector would also help address long-standing perceptions of marginalisation, particularly in the Obubra/Ugep axis. It would inspire confidence among young people, reinforce the principle that excellence is rewarded, and affirm that Cross River State will no longer be silent or invisible in key national education platforms.

In conclusion, appointing a qualified indigene as Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Ugep aligns with national best practices, strengthens institutional stability, restores Cross River State's voice in national polytechnic governance, and upholds the principles of merit and justice. Anything short of this would not only weaken the institution at birth but also erode public confidence in the fairness of federal appointments.

This is not merely about who occupies an office; it is about laying the right foundation for an institution and affirming the rightful place of Cross River State in Nigeria's educational leadership.

Wike’s Camp Suffers Setback as Court Dismisses Samuel Anyanwu’s Suit Against PDP

Ukorebi Esien  |  January 21, 2026 

ABUJA— The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has dismissed the suit filed by Senator Samuel Anyanwu challenging his removal as the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dealing a major setback to the camp of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, widely believed to have backed the embattled party chieftain.

Justice M. G. Umar, in a ruling delivered on Tuesday, struck out Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/254/2025 , Sen. Samuel Anyanwu v. INEC & Ors, in which the former PDP National Secretary sought judicial intervention to retain his position and restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or acting on any PDP correspondence not bearing his signature.

Anyanwu had approached the court following internal party disputes and earlier judicial pronouncements, arguing that his tenure as National Secretary subsisted until December 2025. He also relied on a previous Supreme Court decision which held that the leadership of political parties is largely an internal affair.

However, Justice Umar dismissed the suit on multiple grounds. The court reaffirmed the long-standing position of Nigerian courts that issues bordering on the internal administration and leadership of political parties are non-justiciable and fall outside the jurisdiction of the court.

The judge further held that the suit amounted to an abuse of court process, noting that several cases on the same subject matter were already pending or had been determined at different levels of the judiciary, including the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

In addition, the court ruled that Anyanwu's tenure had expired by effluxion of time, having been elected as PDP National Secretary in 2021. The court held that he could not lawfully continue to lay claim to the office beyond the tenure for which he was elected.

The ruling effectively nullifies Anyanwu's attempt to use the courts to sustain his hold on the PDP national secretariat and is seen as a significant blow to the political influence of the Wike-aligned faction within the party.

Although Anyanwu has persistently maintained that his term remained valid, he was among the high-ranking PDP members expelled from the party during the Ibadan National Convention held in November 2025.

The PDP currently recognises the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC), which emerged from the Ibadan convention and has since been accepted by the party as its legitimate national leadership.

Political observers say the judgment further strengthens the authority of the PDP's current leadership while narrowing the legal and political options available to dissenting factions within the party.

UJIBHADA: Ebokpo Begins Early Grassroots Mobilization for Otu in C'River

Ukorebi Esien | January 21, 2026 

CALABAR — In a move aimed at consolidating support for the re-election of Governor Bassey Edet Otu in 2027, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, KSM, has unveiled the UJIBHADA Progressives Movement, a socio-political support platform designed to mobilise grassroots backing for continuity of the current administration in Cross River State.

The unveiling ceremony, which drew political stakeholders, party faithful and community leaders from across the state, also featured the inauguration of ward, chapter and local government coordinators to drive the activities of the movement at the grassroots level. The structure, according to organisers, is intended to ensure early mobilisation and sustained engagement ahead of the next general elections.

Speaking at the event, Ebokpo, who serves as the Director-General of the movement, said UJIBHADA was formed to galvanise widespread support for Governor Otu's second-term bid, stressing that continuity would guarantee the consolidation of the administration's people-oriented policies and developmental programmes.

Represented by the Deputy Director-General of the movement, Solomon Ekam, Ebokpo explained that "UJIBHADA," a term symbolising prosperity and good fortune, reflects the positive socio-economic direction of the Otu-led government and the need to sustain its reform agenda beyond 2027.

Providing an overview of the organisation, the Director of Special Duties, Dr. Cletus Omono, JP, disclosed that the UJIBHADA Progressives Movement is a duly registered political support group with coordinators across the 18 local government areas of Cross River State, ensuring a broad and inclusive reach.

In his keynote address, former council chairman of Obubra LGA, Dr. Bassey Eric Tom, urged members of the movement to remain united, disciplined and strategic in their engagements, noting that effective grassroots mobilisation would be critical to achieving success in 2027.

Also speaking, elder statesman and seasoned politician, High Chief Julius Mbina, highlighted the electoral strength of Obubra Local Government Area, calling on stakeholders to harness the voting capacity of the area to attract increased development and political relevance.

Goodwill messages were delivered by several stakeholders, including Mrs. Charity Orokwu, as the event attracted a wide spectrum of politicians, traditional leaders and party supporters who pledged their commitment to the ideals of the movement.

The high point of the event was the presentation of an Award of Excellent Performance to Ebokpo by the Director-General of AJEMO (Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo Movement), Mr. Ekawo Cyprian Awah. Presenting the award, Awah said the recognition was in appreciation of the commissioner's notable achievements within a short period in office and his contributions to community and state development.

Observers say the emergence of the UJIBHADA Progressives Movement signals the commencement of early grassroots political realignment ahead of the 2027 governorship election, with continuity of the Otu administration now gaining organised support across the state.

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40 year old man rope minor in Odukpani community

Community Report | November 29, 2025

ODUKPANI – A 40 year old man named Etim Okon has been accused of having series of canal knowledge a 14 year old girl in Okurikan community of Odukpani LGA. 

Etim who is a neighbour had been having sex with 15 year old child of his neighbour when the parents are not around .

According to Mr Cletus Bassey prevent team chairman of partners for peace in the Niger Delta, Cross River State Chapter,  the case was reported to his office in November 2024 and investigations are ongoing while the child has been relocated the perpetrator is still in police custody 

Ikom APC Sets Up Committee to Review 2023 Electoral Woes ahead of 2027

Ukorebi Esien  | January 19, 2026

IKOM – In a decisive move to forestall a repeat of its poor showing in the 2023 general elections, stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State have constituted a data and facts-finding committee to review the party's electoral challenges ahead of the 2027 polls.

The committee inaugurated yesterday in Ikom during a well-attended stakeholders' engagement convened by the Political Leader of Ikom and Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Anyambem, to critically examine the factors responsible for the party's underwhelming performance, particularly in the 2023 governorship election.

Anyambem noted that the initiative is aimed at identifying structural, organizational, and grassroots gaps that affected voter mobilization and coordination, with a view to repositioning the APC as a dominant political force in the local government by 2027.

The six-man committee is chaired by Mr. Odey Oyama, with Dr. Bassey Okim as Co-Chairman. Other members include Prince Eka William, Madam Achi Agbor, Mr. Kingsley Egumi Nnamgbe, Mr. Jones Nkwam,  while Hon. Asinya Ntan serves as Secretary.

According to results announced by INEC during the 2023 gubernatorial election, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu of the APC scored 12,883 while Sen. Sandy Onoh of the PDP scored 14,128

Inaugurating the committee, the Speaker explained that the committee's mandate is to carry out an objective assessment of the 2023 elections across wards in Ikom, engage party leaders and grassroots members, and submit practical recommendations that will guide corrective actions and future electoral strategies.

He stressed that the move is not targeted at witch-hunting any individual but is a collective effort to strengthen party unity, accountability, and performance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a related development and what many has described has a major political boost for the APC, nearly 1,000 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Nnam Ward, a long-time opposition stronghold, formally defected to the ruling party. Party leaders described the defection as a clear indication of shifting political alignments and growing confidence in the APC within the local government.

Receiving the defectors, Rt. Hon. Elvert Anyambem assured them of full integration into party structures, noting that the mass defection further underscores the need to consolidate internal reforms and grassroots engagement.

Stakeholders resolved that the committee's findings would be shared with relevant party organs at the state level to ensure coordinated interventions capable of delivering improved electoral outcomes in 2027.

The committee is expected to commence work immediately, marking what party leaders described as a critical step toward rebuilding trust, strengthening party machinery, and restoring APC's electoral strength in Ikom.

“Theres No Agenda to Unseat Anybody, We need Credible and Transparent Governance in Ikom" – Ayambem Responds to Allegations

Ukorebi Esien | January 18, 2026

IKOM – The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, has dismissed allegations that he is plotting to remove the Executive Chairman of Ikom Local Government Area, Hon. Pst. (Mrs.) Mercy Nsor, describing the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated.

Responding to widespread reports and public speculation, Ayambem insisted that his involvement in recent developments in Ikom is strictly driven by concerns over governance, accountability, and the overall interest of the people, not personal or political ambition.

"This is about governance, not politics," the Speaker said, stressing that there is no agenda to unseat the council chairman or install any preferred successor. According to him, claims that he is pursuing a third-term ambition or nurturing a governorship aspiration ahead of 2031 are "very unfounded" and do not reflect his political focus or intentions.

Ayambem explained that a series of stakeholders' meetings were convened by Ikom leaders to address growing concerns over the administration of the local government council, including financial management and service delivery. He noted that at a recent meeting attended by about 47 leaders from Ikom, both within and outside the state, issues bordering on alleged maladministration were raised.

The Speaker alleged that the council chairman failed to honour invitations to the stakeholders' meeting despite being in Ikom at the time, a development he said was viewed by many leaders as disrespectful and troubling. He further claimed that allegations of financial mismanagement, including the handling of council funds and revenue-generating agencies, were brought before the gathering.

According to Ayambem, the stakeholders resolved to set up a six-man committee to investigate the concerns raised, including factors responsible for Ikom's performance in the 2023 governorship election. He said the outcome of the committee's work would be formally presented to Governor Bassey Edet Otu for necessary action.

"The leadership of Ikom has a responsibility to ask questions and demand accountability. This process is not targeted at removing anyone but at correcting what is not right," he said.

The Speaker also rejected suggestions that his actions are linked to the 2027 elections, maintaining that the objective is to strengthen unity, governance, and political organization in Ikom ahead of future contests. He emphasized that no individual should be allowed to operate the local government as a sole administrator outside established laws and procedures.

On claims that the chairman enjoys protection due to her perceived closeness to the First Lady of the state, Ayambem dismissed such narratives, stating that the First Lady is known for her commitment to truth and accountability, regardless of personal relationships.

Despite the controversy, Ayambem maintained that peaceful engagement remains the preferred option, noting that the issues can still be resolved through dialogue if the council leadership addresses the concerns raised by stakeholders.

As the situation continues to attract public attention, political observers have called for calm, transparency, and strict adherence to due process to prevent further escalation. The unfolding developments in Ikom are expected to test the strength of local governance structures and stakeholder engagement in Cross River State.

Ikom Stakeholders, Councillors Rally Behind Chairman Amid Leadership Dispute

Ukorebi Esien | January 18, 2026

IKOM – Political tension continues to simmer in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State following allegations of moves to unseat the Executive Chairman of the council, Hon. Pst. (Mrs.) Mercy Nsor.

Several stakeholders and councillors in the LGA have reportedly closed ranks behind the chairman, insisting that she remains lawfully in office and has not violated any provision of the Cross River State Local Government Law or the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The controversy follows claims by some political actors that the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, is exerting influence over local party structures and political processes in Ikom. According to sources familiar with developments in the area, concerns have been raised over meetings allegedly convened by individuals perceived to be loyal to the Speaker, which critics say are aimed at influencing the leadership of the council ahead of forthcoming party congresses.

Supporters of the council chairman have described the allegations of maladministration against her as unsubstantiated and politically motivated. They argue that oversight of the executive arm of the local government rests primarily with the legislative arm of the council, made up of elected councillors, and not with any single individual outside that structure.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a stakeholder in Ikom questioned the legality of demands allegedly made for council financial records outside established constitutional and statutory procedures.

"Accountability is important, but it must follow due process. The councillors are constitutionally empowered to carry out oversight of the council's finances and administration. Any other approach raises serious legal and institutional concerns," the source said.

The legislative arm of the Ikom Local Government Council is said to have reaffirmed its support for the chairman, noting that no formal resolution, impeachment process, or official report of wrongdoing has been presented against her. Councillors have reportedly maintained that they have not identified any breach serious enough to warrant disciplinary action against the executive chairman.

Some stakeholders have also expressed concern over what they described as selective stakeholder engagements, alleging that several prominent political leaders and former officeholders from the area were not invited to recent meetings relating to Ikom affairs. They argue that such exclusions undermine the credibility of decisions taken at those gatherings.

Despite the growing political debate, there has been no official communication from the state government or the Cross River State House of Assembly indicating that any lawful process has been initiated to remove the Ikom council chairman.

Observers have called for restraint, transparency, and strict adherence to constitutional provisions to prevent the situation from escalating. They stress that any concerns about governance in Ikom Local Government Area should be addressed through appropriate legal and institutional mechanisms.

As of the time of filing this report, Hon. Mercy Nsor remains in office, with her supporters insisting that she continues to enjoy the confidence of the council legislature and a significant section of stakeholders within the LGA.

Two Men Die After Machete Fight in Odukpani

Ukorebi Esien | Community Report| January 13, 2026

CALABAR - Two men have lost their lives following a violent machete fight in Akpap Okoyong community, Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, was the result of a disagreement between the two men, identified as Edet and Effiong, residents of the community. According to an eyewitness who spoke on condition of anonymity, the altercation began when Effiong went to Edet's residence after a misunderstanding between them.

The source said Effiong reportedly arrived at Edet's house armed with a machete and met him peeling plantain. An argument ensued, during which Effiong allegedly attacked Edet with the machete, inflicting severe injuries. In an attempt to defend himself, Edet was said to have picked up another machete within his compound and struck Effiong.

Both men sustained deep cuts during the confrontation and were immediately rushed to a nearby health centre in the community. However, they could not receive adequate medical attention due to the lack of facilities and equipment to manage the severity of their injuries.

They were later confirmed dead, reportedly from excessive blood loss and dehydration.

At the time of filing this report, the exact cause of the disagreement that led to the fatal clash remains unknown. Residents of Akpap Okoyong community have been thrown into mourning by the tragic incident.

Efforts to obtain official comments from the police were unsuccessful as of press time, but it was gathered that security agencies have been informed of the development and investigations are expected to commence.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the rising cases of violent disputes in rural communities and the urgent need for improved healthcare facilities and effective conflict resolution mechanisms at the grassroots.