By Abasi Ita
Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State was agog on Monday as Senator Eteng Jonas Williams arrived ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Senate primaries for Cross River Central Senatorial District.
His visit attracted a large crowd of supporters and party faithful, with heightened political activities and wild celebrations featuring traditional dances across communities as preparations for the primaries intensified.
Eteng Jonas Williams was received in Yakurr by enthusiastic supporters who expressed confidence in his chances ahead of the party’s selection process.
The visit marked a climax of consultations within the All Progressives Congress as aspirants continued engagements across the senatorial district.
Party stakeholders used the opportunity to show support, with many describing him as a strong contender based on his performance and influence in the region.
Political developments across Cross River Central have continued to generate reactions following indications that Senator Eteng may emerge unopposed after the reported disqualification of his main rival, Oden Ewa, a Commissioner for Special Duties in the state administration. The development reportedly triggered celebrations in several parts of the senatorial district.
Addressing a mammoth crowd in Yakurr, Senator Eteng Jonas Williams dismissed insinuations of underperformance, describing such claims as deliberate attempts to discredit his record.
He said his representation remains focused on human capital development, which he identified as his top priority, adding that education and empowerment initiatives will continue to define his focus.
The senator disclosed that he has facilitated over 36 foreign scholarships for constituents during his first term, alongside several employment opportunities and empowerment programmes.
Williams also noted that he has supported multiple school projects across the district and highlighted an ongoing skills acquisition programme as part of his constituency interventions.
He explained that some projects have faced delays due to funding challenges but expressed optimism that improved budget releases and federal interventions would accelerate development efforts.
The lawmaker assured constituents of more impactful projects if re-elected, stressing that his position as a ranking senator would enable him to attract greater dividends of democracy to Cross River Central.