A former gubernatorial candidate in Nigeria’s Cross River State has expressed concerns over the democratic process in the region. Effiong Nyong, who ran on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ticket, alleged that elections in the state are often reduced to a “selection” process rather than a genuinely democratic exercise.
In an interview, Nyong stated that the state’s electoral system is flawed, with individuals being “programmed” to support particular candidates. He emphasized that this undermines the principles of free and fair elections, which are essential for a healthy democracy. Nyong’s comments suggest that the state’s political landscape is characterized by a lack of transparency and accountability.
The former candidate also criticized the current administration’s handling of the state’s power infrastructure. He recalled that a 23-megawatt power plant was constructed in Calabar during the tenure of former governor Prof. Ben Ayade, with the aim of providing reliable electricity to the city and surrounding areas. However, Nyong alleged that the current government has allowed the plant to deteriorate, rather than upgrading it to run on gas.
Furthermore, Nyong expressed concerns over the administration’s approach to governance, citing a lack of emphasis on competence and technical capacity when making appointments. He also criticized the government’s control over funds allocated to local government areas, stating that this has hindered development at the local level. According to Nyong, local government chairmen are required to seek state approval before spending funds, which has limited their ability to undertake even basic tasks.
The poor state of roads in the state was also highlighted by Nyong, who noted that this would likely deter tourists and hinder participation in major events such as the Christmas carnival. He observed that neighboring Akwa Ibom State has begun to replicate some of the events that were previously unique to Cross River State, which may further undermine the state’s reputation as a tourist destination.
Nyong’s comments have underscored the need for reforms in Cross River State’s electoral system and governance structure. The issues he raised have significant implications for the state’s development and its ability to attract investment and tourism. As the state continues to grapple with these challenges, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to these concerns and work towards creating a more transparent and accountable system.
