APC declares total dominance in Cross River, defends Otu’s performance

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River state, Christopher Eta, has asserted the party’s firm dominance in the state, expressing confidence that no opposition force poses a serious threat ahead of forthcoming elections.

Speaking during an interaction with journalists, Eta maintained that the APC remains united and stable, dismissing widespread claims of internal crisis and disunity within the party structure.

He stated that since he assumed office, he had not encountered any petitions or formal complaints arising from the party’s congresses conducted across the state, stressing that such silence indicates internal cohesion.

According to him, the party’s established mechanisms for handling grievances, including appeal committees, effectively addressed any concerns that may have emerged during the congress processes.

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Eta explained that while politics naturally involves disagreements and competing interests, such dynamics do not amount to disunity but rather reflect a healthy democratic environment.

He insisted that the APC has successfully managed all internal differences and is currently operating as a unified political force with a shared vision.

Reinforcing the party’s confidence, Eta declared that the APC is fully prepared to confront any opposition, noting that political competitors would have to engage the party in a battle of ideas.

He referenced opposition figures such as former governor Liyel Imoke and Donald Duke, stating that they have previously had opportunities to lead and that the current political moment belongs to the APC.

On allegations linking the party to unrest in Bakassi, Eta dismissed the claims, describing the incident as an internal dispute between factions unrelated to the ruling party.

He explained that the crisis stemmed from a disagreement over control of a secretariat, adding that the APC was wrongly dragged into the matter due to its prominence in the state.

Eta also addressed concerns about perceived rifts involving key stakeholders, including former governor Ben Ayade and former party chairman Alphonsus Eba, insisting that there is no conflict requiring reconciliation.

He noted that both figures remain respected members of the party and that their absence from certain meetings does not indicate division.

On the issue of automatic tickets for incumbents, Eta clarified that the state chapter has not received any official directive from the national leadership, adding that preparations for primaries are ongoing in line with party procedures.

Turning to governance, the APC chairman strongly defended the performance of Governor as the administration approaches its third anniversary.

He rejected criticisms that the government lacks legacy projects, arguing that impactful governance extends beyond visible infrastructure to include improvements in healthcare, education, and agriculture.

Eta highlighted ongoing development efforts across the state, including road construction and urban renewal projects in areas such as Ogoja and Ikom, as evidence of the administration’s achievements.

Looking ahead to the elections, he said the party would campaign based on its record and future plans, expressing confidence that voters would continue to support the APC.

On national economic issues, Eta defended the policies of the APC-led federal government, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies, describing it as a necessary step despite the initial hardship.

He noted that economic indicators are beginning to stabilize, with improvements in inflation, currency value, and food prices suggesting gradual recovery.

Eta urged Nigerians to focus on long-term economic benefits, maintaining that the current administration has laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth and national development.