Fresh political developments have fuelled speculation of growing tensions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State following the party’s recently concluded primaries.
According to sources familiar with the situation, some influential figures associated with the immediate past administration are allegedly dissatisfied with the outcome of the primaries and are believed to be behind a series of political and media attacks targeting Governor Bassey Edet Otu, the First Lady, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, and the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar.
The sources alleged that the relationship between both camps deteriorated after Governor Otu reportedly declined a number of political requests ahead of the primaries. Supporters of the current administration claim the Governor’s insistence on maintaining an independent approach to governance has unsettled some political interests.
The sources further claimed that the First Lady and the Chief of Staff have become particular targets because they are perceived as encouraging the Governor to uphold discipline, transparency, and independent decision-making.
They also alleged that recordings exist of meetings in which some individuals expressed dissatisfaction over their alleged exclusion from government and loss of political influence. However, these claims have not been independently verified.
Meanwhile, other sources within the administration reportedly claim that documents relating to projects and financial management under the previous administration are being reviewed, with the possibility of referring any evidence of wrongdoing, if established, to relevant anti-corruption agencies.
The sources also alleged that independent auditors and valuation experts are examining selected infrastructure and industrial projects executed by the previous administration to determine whether they delivered value for public funds.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from individuals linked to the immediate past administration regarding the allegations.
If the claims and counterclaims continue, political observers say Cross River could witness heightened political tensions in the lead-up to future political activities.
Source: CR Eyes
