Political discussions surrounding the next senatorial election in Cross River North Senatorial District are increasingly shifting to social media, where supporters of leading political figures have begun exchanging criticisms and counter-accusations.
Recent posts on Facebook show loyalists of the incumbent senator, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, and those aligned with former governor Ben Ayade engaging in heated debates over political records, personal conduct and leadership performance.
Some of the emotional exchanges involve political commentators and supporters who openly defend their preferred camps while questioning the credibility and achievements of rival actors. In several instances, the discussions have also included references to past political appointments, community development projects and personal backgrounds.
One of the online exchanges involved Joseph Odok, who responded to criticisms about his past, including references to his years in Roman Catholic seminary training and his decision to leave religious formation for family life.
Odok, in a lengthy Facebook post, defended his personal choices and dismissed claims about his past experiences. He also alleged that certain political figures during the administration of former governor Ayade had attempted to undermine him politically.
The development follows earlier posts by another social media user, Beatrice Akpala, who shared remarks questioning Odok’s political and personal history. The exchange subsequently drew reactions from other users who joined the debate.
Political observers say such online confrontations appear to signal early mobilisation among supporters ahead of the next electoral cycle, even though the 2027 general elections are still months away.
According to some analysts, social media platforms have increasingly become arenas where political narratives are shaped, alliances defended and opponents criticised long before formal campaigns begin.
They also note that while the online debates may reflect growing political interest in the senatorial race, the tone of some exchanges highlights concerns about the rising level of personal attacks in political discussions.
In recent years, platforms such as Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) have become central to grassroots political engagement across Cross River state, allowing supporters, activists and commentators to influence public discourse around emerging political contests.
As political activities gradually intensify, analysts believe the online exchanges may offer an early glimpse into what could become a closely watched contest for the Cross River North senatorial seat.
