By Joy Umo
The declaration of intent by the Chief Whip of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Dr Hilary Bisong, to contest the House of Representatives seat for Boki Ikom Federal Constituency has stirred intense debate and political reactions across the constituency, exposing deep divisions over performance, legacy and representation in the area.
Dr Bisong, a three term lawmaker representing Boki II State Constituency, formally announced his ambition under the All Progressives Congress at the weekend, pledging what he described as a one term covenant if elected to the National Assembly. His declaration, anchored on accountability, transparency and measurable impact, has since become a lightning rod for praise, criticism and political scrutiny.
While some supporters describe his entry into the race as a continuation of experienced legislative service, others within political circles and community groups have questioned the motives behind his ambition, his long years in office, and the broader implications for equity and power balance within the constituency.
The controversy has also revived memories of past political tensions in the area, with critics pointing to unresolved grievances, unmet expectations and emotionally charged exchanges that have shaped earlier contests involving key political figures in Boki and Ikom. Some observers argue that these factors are influencing current perceptions of his candidacy, particularly at the grassroots level.
In justifying his ambition, Bisong maintained that his decision is driven by what he described as years of inadequate representation in the constituency. He insisted that his legislative experience places him in a strong position to address longstanding developmental challenges.
“I have seen firsthand the challenges facing our people and I am committed to changing the narrative through focused representation and measurable impact,” he said during his declaration.
However, his aspiration has continued to attract sharp criticism. Some political voices and community members have questioned his long stay in public office and what they describe as limited visible impact in his constituency.
Richard Ncha argued that “after many years in the House of Assembly, the people deserve clear evidence of impact, not renewed promises.”
Similarly, George Bisong, a farmer in the area, expressed concern over what he described as repeated political recycling, questioning whether fresh leadership opportunities are being blocked by long serving politicians.
Adding his voice, Ndoma Akpet from Ikom said, “It is good that Hilary Bisong has declared, but he should consult widely and come to Ikom to explain what really happened to our son, Professor Ndifon. He should also address the situation surrounding Chief Jake Otu Enyia in his predicament at UNICAL.”
Another critic, Richard Ncha, described the declaration as excessive ambition, saying it reflects “heightened greed from someone who has spent nearly two decades in public office without meaningful impact.” He added that Bisong should “reel out verifiable achievements rather than rely on narratives.”
He further stated that “the people of Boki deserve accountability for 16 years of legislative service, not fresh promises without evidence of delivery.”
Commenting on the development, Comfort Osor criticised what she described as the tendency of some politicians to cling to public office, saying it reflects insatiable ambition and a lack of exit strategy.
“Our politicians must have a second address. You cannot depend on taxpayers’ money in perpetuity. Hilary Bisong’s House of Representatives bid smacks of a lack of exit plan and insatiable greed,” she said.
At the centre of the unfolding debate is a broader question of trust in public office. While supporters believe his one term pledge demonstrates commitment to accountability, critics remain unconvinced, demanding a clear record of achievements before any new mandate is considered.
As party primaries draw closer, the contest is expected to intensify further, with alliances, endorsements and counter narratives likely to shape the political direction of the Boki Ikom Federal Constituency race.
For now, Dr Bisong’s ambition has done more than announce a candidacy. It has opened a wider conversation on leadership, legacy and the growing demand from constituents for results rather than rhetoric.