- Says ‘People First’ agenda fully on course
BY UBON EKANEM, CALABAR – The All Progressive Congress (APC), Cross River State chapter, has challenged opposition parties in the state to come out of political hibernation and act as critical stakeholders in driving the state forward.
According to the ruling party, the opposition groups cannot remain dormant and still claim to be viable alternatives to the hardworking APC administration in the State.
State Chairman of the ruling Party, Hon Chris Etta, who threw the challenge in Calabar, the State capital, however said the APC considers opposition parties as key stakeholders with their views on certain public policies ensuring the governance process gathers momentum, especially during electioneering periods.
Specifically baring his mind on political developments in the state while on his way to the Party’s zonal convention in Asaba, Delta State, Etta said those claiming to be leaders of opposition parties in the state had tested power, and comparatively, the electorates are better informed and placed to know the difference and those who deserve their mandate come 2027.
The APC chairman maintained that the Governor Bassey Otu-led APC administration has continued to receive accolades and positive feedback for its “People First” agenda since assuming office in May 2023.
For him, among the key achievements of the State government are infrastructure development (roads), enhanced security, agricultural initiatives, efforts in education, and health sectors, as well as boosting the state’s economy
He said as the ruling party, APC resonates with the people and also curries media interest in terms of the Governor Otu’s leadership focusing on creating a robust social security system, which includes youth empowerment and support for the vulnerable.
However, while describing dissenting views of opposition parties as a ‘collective camouflage’ of already existing political structures, Etta said APC is not troubled by their ‘noise-making’ antics, adding that asking the people to trust them with political power is more like putting new wine in old bottles.
