The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 election in Cross River State, Sir Arthur Javis Archibong, has urged citizens to use the power of their votes to shape the future of the state and elect leaders capable of delivering meaningful development.
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‎In a Democracy Day message made available to journalists, Archibong said June 12 serves as a reminder that democracy gives power to the people and offers them the opportunity to determine the quality of leadership they desire.
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‎He called on Cross Riverians not to remain passive while their future is being undermined, stressing that the electorate must take responsibility for choosing competent leaders who can change the state’s current trajectory.
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‎According to him, the administration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state has failed to provide effective leadership over the past three years.
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‎”June 12 reminds us that power belongs to the people. It was earned by those who refused to bow to tyranny, and it must now be used by those of us who refuse to accept mediocrity,” he said.
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‎Archibong lamented what he described as the waste of the state’s abundant resources and potential, accusing the APC government of making promises without corresponding results.
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‎He alleged that many roads across the state have deteriorated, hospitals are poorly equipped, and several communities have been neglected.
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‎”For three years under APC, we have seen promises without projects, noise without results, and intimidation instead of accountability. Our roads are failing, our hospitals are empty, our people neglected, and our communities abandoned. That is not democracy. That is drift,” he stated.
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‎The PDP governorship hopeful, however, expressed confidence that the situation could be reversed through the collective action of the people at the polls.
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‎He pledged that if elected in 2027, his administration would focus on wealth creation, job opportunities, economic revival, infrastructure development, inclusive governance, accountability and transparency.
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‎Archibong also reaffirmed his commitment to serving only one four year term, promising to provide leadership that would prioritise the welfare and aspirations of Cross Riverians.