Ayade Laments Unfair Treatment by APC Despite Loyalty

Former Cross River State Governor Professor Ben Ayade has voiced disappointment with the All Progressives Congress (APC) for failing to acknowledge his contributions to the party’s success in the South‑South region. Ayade, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in 2021, said he made significant sacrifices to align his state with the ruling party despite the political risks involved. In a recent media interview, he revealed that he still bears the scars of the battle to bring Cross River into the APC fold.

Ayade explained that his decision to join the APC was driven by his foresight of the party’s potential for growth and dominance in the country. He described the move as a strategic effort to position Cross River for relevance and federal attention, not an impulsive choice. He was among the first to publicly endorse Senator Bola Tinubu as the presidential candidate, long before the party’s primaries, and devoted considerable time and energy to Tinubu’s 2023 campaign, often prioritizing the presidential candidate’s interests over his own.

Despite his loyalty and contributions, Ayade feels the APC has not treated him fairly or recognized his efforts adequately. Nevertheless, he remains hopeful that President Tinubu will acknowledge those who supported him during the campaign. Ayade praised the president as a smart leader who values loyalty and expressed confidence that Tinubu will surprise the nation with his leadership, rewarding those who stood by him when it mattered.

Ayade’s comments come as the APC continues to consolidate power in the South‑South. His 2021 defection was seen as a significant shift, marking one of the first times a governor from the region joined the ruling party. His early endorsement of President Tinubu and his contributions to the campaign were notable given the region’s political landscape. As the APC seeks to build on its success in the South‑South, Ayade’s remarks underscore the need for the party to recognize and reward the loyalty of its members.