Ayade laments distractions to his administration

No doubt, the legal battle confronting Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State is taking its toll on the administration that has barely spend 17 months in office.

Ironically, a member of his political family – the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), provoked the challenges before the governor. Mr. Joe Agi (SAN) had sued the PDP, the governor and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over issues of perjury, and others in a pre-election matter after the party’s primary that declared Ayade winner.

Agi who came second in the governorship primary alleged that Ayade falsified his age contrary to the provisions of the PDP guidelines. At the High Court and Appeal Court, Ayade won.

But the matter took a different turn at the Supreme Court with the PDP lawyer, supporting the claim of Agi. Since the apex court fixed December 9 for judgment, things have not been the same in the state.

There has been tension, as rallies, solidarity visits, meetings and lobbying have become order of the day. This development has been aptly seen as distractions to the lofty plans, policies and programmes of the government by Ayade.

Speaking when the leadership of the state chapter of PDP led by its chairman, Ntufam Edim Inok Edim, paid him a visit in Calabar, the governor bemoaned the disruptions and the negative effects on governance.

Ayade who expressed appreciation to the party for the visit, restated his commitment to the welfare of people of Cross River. He said his vision and projects have the blessing of God and “God can never let them die because they are intended to serve and improve the lives of the people.”

He urged the party to continue to support his administration with prayers, lamenting the many distractions that have trailed his government.

“In the state distractions has become destruction. It is not what we are known for as citizens of Cross Rivers. Here in this state our heritage is to be civil and decent. For me I have made a choice to learn from the criticisms of critics. I am being criticised for doing something right. The ultimate focus is to serve the people. This visit gives me inspiration and hope.

“We should forgive, tolerate and accept the inadequacies of our brothers who are fond of criticizing. As a government and a party we remain focused on our campaign promises to our people,” he stated.

Earlier, the PDP chairman said the governor remains extremely popular with the people of the state on account of his sterling performance in office adding that the party has implicit confidence in the governor’s leadership.

“Your Excellency, we want to use this opportunity to pass a vehement and unequivocal vote of confidence on your visionary leadership; and in particular, on your people-oriented policies, programmes and projects in the state,” Edim stated.

He explained that the visit was necessary so as to “once again demonstrate our unflinching support to your administration as the unbeatable governor of Cross River and leader of the Peoples Democratic Party.”

In particular, he commended the governor for the state health insurance scheme known, which he said is for the benefit of all citizen of Cross River.

Additionally, he lauded Ayade for some wonderful innovations he has introduced to the state since he was elected as governor, saying: “Many of your innovations to transform the economic status of our dear state are trending positively and creating waves in Cross River state and beyond.”

The party chairman urged him to ignore detractors, as he remained popular with the people on account of his policies.