...Calls for Caution in Political Relationships
A socio-political organization based in Bekwarra, known as the Bekwarra Concerned Group (BCG), has issued a statement cautioning against the recent political alignment between the State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe from Cross River North. In a statement signed by Eneji Paul Akonjom and released to the press in Calabar, the group expressed initial optimism about the political collaboration between the Governor and Senator Jarigbe. However, they raised concerns about Senator Jarigbe’s alleged inconsistent behavior, likening it to that of a “chameleon” NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.
The statement tagged “The Jarigbe Factor and the APC, Cross River State: Issues for Consideration,” reads in part: “It was initially heartwarming when we heard of the political romance between you and Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe. In fact, I considered it a harmless, symbiotic relationship. As good as your intentions would be in that relationship, unfortunately,Your Excellency, Sen. Jarigbe is only playing the Chameleon.”
The statement highlighted a recent incident involving Hon. Signor Omang Idiege, a prominent figure from Bekwarra, who visited the Governor along with stakeholders to pledge their loyalty. According to the statement, Senator Jarigbe allegedly undermined the visit by taking the group to Vandekya, Benue State, where he purportedly discussed plans to deviate from his political understanding with the Governor regarding the 2027 elections.
Furthermore, the group accused Senator Jarigbe of planting moles within the Governor’s camp to gather sensitive information for his own political gain. They claimed that Hon. Idiege, one of the stakeholders who visited the Governor, was allegedly bribed with ₦5 million, while others received sums totaling ₦30 million from Senator Jarigbe.
The statement also addressed recent defections of APC members in Bekwarra, attributing them to Senator Jarigbe’s alleged manipulative tactics. However, it stopped short of making direct accusations without substantial evidence.
The group urged the Governor to remain vigilant and suggested that the proposed Caretaker Committee for Bekwarra should be led by individuals with proven grassroots impact and democratic credentials. They emphasized the importance of selecting candidates based on merit rather than political allegiances.
“The solution lies in our party making more grassroots impact in Bekwarra.” “Jarigbe,” he furthered, “is a grassroots Politician and may I suggest that the proposed Caretaker Committee for Bekwarra should be headed by one with the requisite pedigree and is reputed for effective grassroots mobilisation and impact.”
The statement maintained that by the reason of such appointments “the people of Bekwarra will naturally look away from Jarigbe.”
It further said one who won the last general elections in his polling unit is eminently qualified for the Caretaker Committee Chairmanship, while urging the Governor to do a dispassionate assessment of the results of the said election as a guide for the appointment.
The statement urged the APC to address the concerns raised regarding Senator Jarigbe’s actions tactfully, emphasizing the need for fair and transparent political processes.
