By Judex Okoro
A coalition of political stakeholders in Cross River North Senatorial District, under the banner of JARILEAGUE, has endorsed the re election bids of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Bassey Otu and Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The endorsement followed an expanded stakeholders’ meeting held in Calabar, where participants reviewed the performance of the three leaders and expressed satisfaction with their impact.
Speaking at the meeting, the coordinator of the coalition, Professor Egaga Patrick of the University of Calabar, said the decision was reached after a thorough and objective assessment.
“Our decision is based on a careful evaluation of their performance, commitment and impact on the people. We stand behind leaders who deliver and have shown capacity to sustain progress,” he said.
Patrick noted that despite prevailing economic and social challenges, there had been visible improvements across key sectors.
“Significant strides have been recorded in infrastructure, education and economic development, particularly in road connectivity and interventions that support local economies,” he added.
The coalition said its endorsement was driven by measurable achievements in governance, including inclusive policies and grassroots development.
Also speaking, community leader and former Permanent Secretary, Ntufam Effenji Odey, commended the trio for prioritising youth development.
“The increased access to education through scholarships and bursaries is a clear investment in the future of our young people and leadership pipeline,” he said.
In his remarks, Professor Jacob Owan of the University of Calabar described the endorsement as a reflection of growing public confidence in the leadership of the three office holders.
“This endorsement reflects the confidence of the people in purposeful leadership. Their policies and programmes have laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth,” he stated.
He added, “Our decision is driven by the visible scorecard of the trio, which demonstrates their commitment to addressing longstanding challenges, from basic amenities to infrastructure gaps in our communities.”
Professor Anthony Bullem also highlighted what he described as consistency in governance, particularly in human capital development.
“They have shown capacity and consistency in governance. Continued investment in education and other critical sectors will yield long term benefits,” he said.
Barrister Gabriel Oko, in his contribution, stressed the need for continuity to consolidate ongoing reforms.
“This endorsement is both timely and necessary. Continuity in leadership will strengthen policy implementation and safeguard the gains already recorded,” he noted.
The coalition also pointed to key initiatives of the federal government, including infrastructure projects, tax reforms and the removal of fuel subsidy.
“These policies are repositioning the national economy and laying the groundwork for long term stability,” the group stated.
At the state level, the stakeholders praised Governor Otu’s reforms in education and public service delivery.
“We commend the establishment of a University of Education and Entrepreneurship, the payment of WAEC fees, regular salaries and pensions, and the revival of strategic assets such as Tinapa and Obudu Ranch Resort,” the coalition said.
On Senator Jarigbe, the group highlighted constituency projects across the district.
“At least one project has been executed or is ongoing in each of the 54 political wards, covering infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and human capital development,” it noted.Politics
Reaffirming its position, the coalition declared its support for the trio as firm and unanimous.
“Our position is clear and irreversible. Having assessed their sincerity of purpose and dedication to the people, we fully support their re election,” the group stated.
The meeting ended with a call for unity among stakeholders and a commitment by the coalition to mobilise support for the endorsed candidates to sustain development across Cross River North, the state and the country.
The group, which comprises over one hundred members, includes professors, senior academics, retired civil servants and political appointees drawn from within and outside the state.