Jarigbe, Ayade Clash Over Senate Race
…as Jarigbe Accuses Former Governor of Distorting Facts, while Ayade Insists Tinubu to Bury Senatorial Ambition
By Raphael Ekpang
Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North in the Senate, has fired back at former Governor Senator Ben Ayade over recent political comments, accusing him of misrepresenting facts, revising history, and distorting electoral realities in Cross River State.
Jarigbe dismissed Ayade’s claims as misleading, particularly allegations relating to party loyalty, zoning arrangements, and internal dynamics within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He insisted that election results in Cross River North reflected the will of the people and not ethnic or religious influence, adding that voters had consistently made independent political choices across recent elections.
The senator further questioned Ayade’s claims of political influence during the 2023 general elections, pointing to inconsistencies in his political actions during the presidential primaries.
Jarigbe maintained that no formal zoning arrangement exists for the Cross River North senatorial seat, describing the contest as open and competitive.
While reaffirming his loyalty to the APC, Jarigbe also acknowledged internal party tensions and expressed concern over what he described as directives from the Presidency affecting his political future. He, however, called for calm and continued unity within the party.
Jarigbe urged supporters to remain patient as consultations continue at the national level.
Meanwhile, former Governor Ben Ayade has alleged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed him not to contest the 2027 Senate race following a high-level consultation in Abuja.
Ayade said he accepted the alleged directive with “deep disappointment and emotional pain,” while reaffirming his loyalty to the President and the APC.
He claimed that some beneficiaries of the arrangement were individuals who had previously opposed him and the party during past elections, including during the controversial Muslim-Muslim ticket period.
Ayade also alleged incidents of electoral violence during collation processes in previous elections, insisting that police records support his claims.
The former governor further highlighted his past contributions to the APC, including electoral support during the 2023 presidential election, donations, and logistics assistance to the party.
He, however, expressed concern over what he described as prolonged political sidelining despite his contributions to the ruling party.
Ayade urged supporters to exercise restraint, citing constitutional and religious principles on submission to authority, while calling for patience as the situation unfolds.
“Election outcomes reflect the will of the people, not manipulation or sentiment.” — Senator Jarigbe
“I respectfully yield to Mr President’s request, though with deep disappointment.” — Senator Ben Ayade
Meanwhile, Political observers have said that the development underscores growing tension within APC structures in Cross River State ahead of future elections.
