Hon. Peter Akpanke, the member representing Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the unassailable political force in Cross River State, expressing full confidence in its ability to secure a decisive victory in the 2027 general elections.
APC's Dominance and ADC Dismissal
Speaking to journalists upon his arrival at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport in Calabar on Friday, Akpanke firmly stated that no political party currently poses a credible threat to the ruling APC's dominance in the state. He specifically addressed and dismissed claims that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was preparing to upstage the APC in the upcoming polls.
"To say taking over is very easy, where is ADC? Who are their key figures?" Akpanke challenged during his interaction with the press. "Do you know any of their leaders in Cross River, not to talk of Nigeria? They should first resolve their internal issues before thinking of challenging APC. Our government is performing well, and the president is doing well. So, where is the ADC coming from?"
Commending Otu's Development Strides
The federal lawmaker heaped praises on Governor Bassey Otu's administration for what he described as "visible development strides" across various sectors in the state. He highlighted the administration's commitment to infrastructure development and empowerment programs as key factors that have rekindled hope among Cross Riverians.
"In the area of tourism, road construction, infrastructure, and empowerment, the governor has done excellently well," Akpanke noted. "Look around — the Cross River State Library, Governor's Office, and Peregrino Hall have all been renovated. Across the three senatorial districts, there are ongoing projects. The governor is doing well, and we are united in supporting him to succeed."
Call for Unity and Addressing Economic Challenges
Akpanke urged all citizens of Cross River State to rally behind Governor Otu and the APC leadership to maintain the current development momentum and ensure the continuous delivery of democratic dividends. "Let us unite as one Cross River, support our governor, and stand by whoever he presents for any position. He is our leader, and he is leading well," he emphasized.
Addressing the prevailing economic hardship and public discontent with the federal administration, the legislator acknowledged the challenges but characterized them as necessary sacrifices for national recovery. "Yes, we understand that there is hunger in the land, but before the president came on board, a lot had already gone wrong. As a nation, we must make sacrifices to rebuild," he explained.
Akpanke expressed optimism about the future, stating that the reforms introduced by the president will yield results very soon. "Whatever we are going through now is temporary — a price we must pay for a better tomorrow. When a road is being built, there will be demolition, dust, and inconvenience — but those are sacrifices for development. Nigeria will soon be better by the grace of God."
