…Says State being sidelined despite loyalty to APC, calls for political solution on 76 oil wells
By Edem Ekpo
Senator Eteng Jonah Williams has raised concerns over what he termed the continued sidelining of Cross River State in national politics, stating that the State has not received the recognition and benefits due to it despite its unwavering support for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking when members of the Cross River State Patriotic Front paid him a solidarity visit in Abuja, the lawmaker, who represents Cross River Central in the National Assembly, said the state’s fortunes were hampered by poor political negotiations during its transition to the APC.
“I do not think I will be making a mistake to affirm that the Nigerian state has not been fair to Cross River State,” Williams stated. “Maybe we didn’t negotiate properly before aligning with the APC. Now we are being taken for granted.”
Senator Williams, a former Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, said it was unacceptable for a state that had contributed significantly to national unity and the growth of the ruling party to be sidelined when benefits are shared.
He particularly stressed the unresolved dispute over the 76 oil wells ceded to Akwa Ibom State, calling on the Federal Government to pursue a political solution that prioritizes justice for Cross River.
“The 76 oil wells require a political solution. The Federal Government must do the needful,” he insisted, adding that the loss of the wells continues to have economic consequences for the state.
Williams praised the emergence of the Cross River State Patriotic Front, describing the group as a timely intervention committed to championing the cause of the state.
“This is the first time we are seeing a group truly passionate about the state’s welfare. If we had more like you, we would be far ahead politically,” he said.
He also acknowledged that Cross River has birthed several states in the South-South region and deserves greater federal attention, especially under an administration that benefited from the State’s support.
According to him, Governor Bassey Otu has played a major role in strengthening the APC in the region and should be rewarded with more federal presence and appointments for the State.
Commenting on federal institutions, Senator Williams noted that the regional setup of some agencies makes it difficult for Cross Riverians to be included, but expressed optimism that such barriers will eventually be overcome.
He also defended his actions in the Senate, including a scholarship initiative under the Petroleum Development Trust Fund (PDTF), saying criticism should be constructive and not politically motivated.
On national representation, the Senator stressed that ranking in the National Assembly remains key to attracting influence and development, urging Cross Riverians to support lawmakers’ continuity for better results.
Earlier, Director General of the Cross River State Patriotic Front, Hon. Castro Ezama, described the current treatment of the State at the federal level as unfair and unacceptable. He lamented that despite Cross River’s role in the APC’s expansion, the State has remained at the bottom in terms of federal allocations and political appointments.
He cited the case of Dr. Betta Edu’s former position as APC National Women Leader being handed to another state following her ministerial appointment, despite Cross River’s foundational support for the party in the South-South.
Ezama further noted that the internal disunity among the State’s political actors has contributed to its current challenges and called for a renewed spirit of collaboration.
Also speaking, Ms. Beatrice Akpala, Director of Communications for the group, reiterated the organization’s mission to push for the State’s fair treatment through advocacy, not confrontation. She commended Senator Williams’ leadership and political journey, saying it was only right for the group to name him as one of its Patrons.
Williams, in accepting the role, assured the group of his continued support and encouraged them to keep pushing for the State’s best interests.
With political awareness growing and stakeholders increasingly vocal, Senator Williams and the Cross River State Patriotic Front appear determined to ensure the State is no longer overlooked in the national scheme.