A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State, Nsa Ekpenyong, has told former governor, Ben Ayade to take responsibility for his political setbacks rather than attributing them to others.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Ekpenyong said recent remarks credited to Ayade linking his electoral challenges to the influence of Governor Bassey Otu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, was unfounded.

According to him, electoral outcomes should be viewed within the broader context of voter choice and political dynamics within the state.

He noted that the 2023 general elections in Cross River reflected a range of factors, including party performance, campaign strategy, underhand dealings, manipulations and local political alignments.

Ekpenyong emphasised that internal cohesion within the party remains important for future success.

He stated that Ayade’s loss to Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe in 2023 demonstrated the competitive nature of the race, adding that such outcomes were part of democratic processes.

He however called for unity within the APC, and urged party stakeholders to focus on strengthening structures and supporting the administration of Governor Otu.

Ekpenhong added that constructive engagement, rather than public disagreements, would better serve the interests of the party and the state, and called on political actors to promote cooperation and accountability as the party prepares for future electoral contests.