By Abasi Ita, Calabar
Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing the Cross River Northern Senatorial District, has debunked widespread rumours of his impending defection to the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC).
Addressing constituents during a series of town hall meetings in Obudu, Bekwarra, and Obanliku local government areas lost weekend, Senator Jarigbe affirmed his intention to be on the ballot in the 2027 general election.
Speculation about Senator Jarigbe’s move to the APC has intensified in recent months, with reports suggesting overtures from prominent APC leaders in Abuja.
However, sources close to the Senator indicate his strong preference for remaining with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
During the town hall meetings, Senator Jarigbe dismissed the defection claims, stating, “I cannot abandon the people and the platform that gave me their support and mandate to represent them.”
He drew parallels with President Bola Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu, noting their political journeys in opposition before achieving their current positions. “If President Tinubu did not stay in opposition, he would not be president today. If our governor, Prince Otu, did not stay in opposition, he wouldn’t have been governor today.
“So nobody can come and coerce me and say that I must move to any party.”
While acknowledging some internal issues at the national level within the PDP, Senator Jarigbe expressed confidence that these would be resolved, ensuring the party’s ability to field candidates.
“By the grace of God, I will be on the ballot. Nothing is going to stop you from voting for your son and the person you want. I want to correct an impression that I’m moving from this party. I’m not moving.” He also clarified that any individual’s decision to leave the party would be for personal reasons, not due to a lack of party tickets.
The Senator emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, “It’s time for governance. We have no excuse not to deliver. We want you to hold us accountable.
“He used the town hall meetings as an opportunity to provide an account of his stewardship during his two years in the 10th Assembly, highlighting ongoing projects such as the electrification of Gakem to Abuochiche in Bekwarra Local Government Area and the construction of Amukwong bridge in Obudu Local Government Area.
In his remarks, Vena Ikem, Esq., the Cross River State Chairman of the PDP, commended Senator Jarigbe for holding the town hall meetings, a practice he described as crucial for representatives to receive feedback from their constituents.
He encouraged attendees to offer both constructive criticism and commendation.
Constituents across the three local government areas voiced their expectations and appreciation.
In Obudu, residents called on Senator Jarigbe to facilitate federal appointments for youths, advocating for their inclusion in agencies like the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and the Federal Inland Revenue Service.
Iin separate interviews, Bekwarra constituents applauded the Senator for securing federal government scholarships for three of their sons studying abroad and requested job opportunities for youths, as well as the completion of the electrification project. They reiterated their unwavering support for Senator Jarigbe beyond 2027.
A significant highlight of the Bekwarra meeting was the defection of numerous APC members to the PDP., including Mr. Joe Okpen Adams, the APC Chapter Secretary, and Odama Groovydee Abednigo Oga, a former aide to ex-Governor Ben Ayade, led hundreds of former APC faithful in joining the PDP.
The duo cited Senator Jarigbe’s leadership and service to the people as their motivation. Senator Jarigbe welcomed the new members, emphasizing that the PDP’s appeal is “natural and organic,” without coercion or lures.