C/River Ex-Reps’ Aspirant Quits APC Over Unfulfilled Promises

A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State, Hon. Pius Abang, popularly known as Jojo Amani, has resigned from the party, blaming his action on unfulfilled campaign promises and ethical concerns.

In a letter signed by Abang and addressed to APC ward chairman Boje, Boki local government of Cross River State, he averred that the decision was guided by “personal beliefs, principles and ethical convictions.”

The politician who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC ahead of the 2023 general elections said he could no longer defend a party whose actions had “fallen far short” of commitments made to the electorate.

“My conscience will not permit me to defend what I cannot justify or to promote what I do not believe has served the people adequately,” the former Ikom/Boki federal constituency aspirant declared.

The one-time aspirant for Ikom/Boki federal constituency said the move was difficult but became necessary as his faith no longer aligns with the party’s conduct.

“It was not made lightly,” Abang stated, explaining that as a committed Catholic whose faith “emphasizes humanity, honesty, justice, and service to the people,” he can no longer in good conscience remain in the APC.

He recalled defecting from the PDP to the APC ahead of the 2023 general elections after being swayed by assurances from APC candidates in Cross River State. “The assurances and commitments made by APC candidates inspired me to defect to the party,” he said.

Abang said he held extensive discussions with the House of Assembly candidate for Boki Constituency I, the House of Representatives candidate for Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency, the Senate candidate for the Central Senatorial District, and the governorship candidate of Cross River State, and was convinced by their vision for development.

Three years into their tenures, however, he said the reality on the ground has disappointed supporters. “From the grassroots to the highest levels of government, the promises that were made to the people remain largely unfulfilled,” he said.

With the 2027 general elections approaching, Abang said he has no tangible results to present to voters.

“I find myself without tangible achievements or fulfilled commitments to present to the people as evidence of the trust they placed in the party,” he noted, adding that “my conscience will not permit me to defend what I cannot justify.”

While wishing the APC well, Abang said he has aligned with another political platform that shows greater commitment to transparency and development.

“I sincerely wish the APC and its members well in their future endeavors. However, I remain committed to the pursuit of good governance, accountability, and genuine service to the people,” he said.