By Elijah Ugani
A delegation of National Democratic Congress (NDC) House of Assembly candidates from Cross River State has appealed to the party leadership to ensure that its governorship candidate for the state emerges from the Southern Senatorial District, arguing that such a decision aligns with the aspirations of party members and the people of the state.
The delegation, led by the Vice Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council and NDC candidate for the Ogoja State Constituency, Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, met with the party’s National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, to present what they described as the collective position of Cross River stakeholders on the zoning of the governorship ticket.
Speaking after the meeting, Yakubu said the delegation impressed upon the party leadership the need to respect the prevailing sentiment within the state by zoning the governorship ticket to the South, warning that any contrary decision could adversely affect the party’s electoral prospects.
According to him, the delegation informed Senator Dickson that House of Assembly candidates across the state could become “casualties” if the party fields a governorship candidate from outside the Southern Senatorial District, as such a move could diminish grassroots support for the party.
He, however, commended the national leadership for granting the delegation an audience and for assuring them that their concerns would be carefully considered.
Yakubu expressed confidence that the NDC, which he described as a party committed to providing a credible alternative for Nigerians, would make a decision that reflects the wishes of its members in Cross River State.
Despite advocating for the Southern governorship ticket, he reaffirmed the delegation’s commitment to party supremacy, stating that they would abide by whatever decision the party ultimately reaches.
“We have made our position known to the leadership of the party, but we remain committed to the supremacy of the party and will respect its final resolution,” he said.
The Ogoja State Assembly candidate also praised the 16 Cross River House of Assembly candidates who joined the advocacy, describing them as courageous and selfless for standing together in pursuit of what they believe is in the best interest of the party.
The candidates include Eko Alobo (Abi), Jeremiah Bichua (Boki II), Paul Njama (Boki I), Anthony Duke (Calabar South), Eyo Essien (Calabar Municipal), Glory Essien (Bakassi), Peter Mbata (Yala II), Friday Odey (Yala I), Saveus Okoi (Yakurr I), Ayomobi Oko-Ofaye (Yakurr II), Ukeme Monday (Calabar South II), Eje Godwin (Bekwarra), David Abeh (Obanliku), Alloysius Ajom (Akamkpa I), Sampson Irek (Obubra I), and Emmanuel Idi Yakubu (Ogoja).
Yakubu concluded by expressing appreciation to Senator Dickson for what he described as his openness and willingness to listen, adding that he was optimistic the party leadership would take a decision that promotes unity, equity, and the long-term growth of the NDC in Cross River State.