IPAC To Otu: Cross River Belongs To All, Not APC Alone

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Cross River State chapter, has urged Governor Bassey Otu to ensure that political appointments in the state reflect the collective will of all Cross Riverians rather than being restricted to members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The Council made the call while reacting to recent appointments announced by the governor, stressing that governance should be inclusive and representative of the diverse groups that contributed to his electoral victory.

In a letter addressed to Governor Otu and signed by the state chairman of IPAC, Engr. Effiom Edet Okon, the Council acknowledged the governor’s constitutional authority to make appointments but argued that such powers should be exercised with a sense of responsibility to all citizens.

“Your Excellency, the power to make appointments rests squarely with you as governor. That authority is not in dispute,” the Council stated.

It, however, added that the legitimacy of that authority stemmed from the broad support the governor received during the election.

“What must not be ignored is the source of that authority.

“Your mandate was not delivered by members of a single political party alone. It was built on the collective will of Cross Riverians, cutting across party lines, religious affiliations, ethnic identities and social divides.

“Men and women who are not members of the APC stood in the sun, cast their votes and entrusted you with leadership,” the Council said.

IPAC warned against turning political appointments into rewards solely for party loyalty, describing such an approach as contrary to democratic principles and the spirit of inclusive governance.

“Appointments cannot, and must not, be reduced to a reward system for party loyalty alone. That approach diminishes the spirit of democracy and undermines the broad-based mandate you now hold,” the Council cautioned.

The advisory body maintained that appointments should be guided by merit, competence and the overall interest of the state rather than partisan considerations.

“Appointments should reflect inclusiveness, fairness and merit. Competence, integrity, capacity and commitment to the development of Cross River State should take precedence over partisan considerations,” IPAC emphasised.

The Council further argued that inclusive governance strengthens democratic institutions, promotes political stability and fosters public confidence in government.

“An inclusive government is not a sign of weakness. It is a demonstration of strength, confidence and respect for democracy. It fosters unity, stabilises the political environment and builds lasting trust in leadership,” the statement added.

IPAC concluded by reminding the governor that while political parties compete for power during elections, governance ultimately belongs to all citizens.

“Political parties may contest elections. But governance belongs to the people. Let your appointments reflect that undeniable truth,” the Council stated.