By Abasi Ita
The Chief Whip of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Dr Hilary Bisong, has declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat for Boki Ikom Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Congress.
Bisong made the declaration on Saturday, calling for a fair, democratic and transparent primary process while pledging what he described as a one term covenant anchored on accountability, transparency and measurable impact.
The former Deputy Leader and three term lawmaker representing Boki II State Constituency said his decision to join the race was driven by the need to improve representation in the federal constituency.
He expressed confidence in his capacity to change what he described as decades of inadequate representation.
Bisong also commended Governor Bassey Otu for his commitment to purposeful governance, noting that leadership must be intentional, compassionate and result driven.
“It is a standard we must not only commend but also emulate. I have sat with farmers in Ikom and Boki whose harvests of cocoa, plantain, cassava and palm oil earn them less than they deserve.
“I have spoken with mothers in our communities whose children are born without access to functional healthcare facilities. I have listened to the frustrations of our youths who are eager for opportunities but remain limited by circumstances.
“I have also travelled across our communities and witnessed firsthand the impact of years of inadequate representation. That is why I am committing to a one term covenant focused on accountability, transparency and measurable impact,” he said.
He added that his vision is to follow the path of growth, service and transformation while ensuring that the people of Boki and Ikom are not left behind.
Bisong said his agenda would focus on three key areas including infrastructure development, economic revitalisation and addressing youth migration from the constituency.
According to him, these priorities would be pursued through clearly defined timelines ranging from immediate interventions within three months to medium and long term goals over a four year period.
“I am not asking for time to prove myself. I have demonstrated my capacity through 12 years of consistent and principled legislative service. I am asking for one term to deliver meaningful change, and I am prepared to do just that.
“Having served as a member, Deputy Leader and now Chief Whip, I have a deep understanding of legislative processes, appropriations and how federal resources can be effectively channelled to benefit our communities,” he said.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to the party and appealed for a level playing field in the primaries.
“To my party, I remain loyal and committed. I only ask for a fair and transparent process that allows the will of the people to prevail. I am confident that when given the opportunity, the people will support my aspiration,” he said.