Ahead of the heightening 2027 general election activities, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Gas), Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has urged all players to campaign based on issues and eschew bitterness and violence.
Senator Jarigbe, who represents Cross River North, made this call while formally declaring the start of his re-election journey.
Addressing constituents in what he titled “A Piece of My Thoughts,” the lawmaker urged supporters and political actors alike to reject insults, personal attacks, and divisive rhetoric, even in the face of stiff opposition.
“My dear good people of Cross River North, as we embark on this re-election journey, I thank you deeply for your unwavering support,” he began, before quickly setting clear boundaries for the campaign ahead.
He added, “I must speak plainly to you about the path we must take. With the political atmosphere already charged, particularly with the presence of formidable contenders such as former Governor Ben Ayade, Jarigbe cautioned against descending into mudslinging.
“I am aware that emotions run high. Our opponents, including my brother, former governor, Senator Ben Ayade, are formidable,” he acknowledged.
“I charge you: do not use uncouth words against any aspirant. No insult, no personal attack, no abusive language. We are better than that. Our campaign will be defined by ideas, not insults, “he said.
The senator also called for respect toward the office of the governor, past and present, regardless of differing opinions about performance in office.
“Furthermore, I demand that you respect the Seat of Governor, whether serving or former, regardless of who occupies it,” he declared.
“Whether you believe the former governor performed or underperformed, that office commands our collective dignity. No man is infallible. We all have strengths and weaknesses. Let us critique records, not abuse persons, “he stressed.
He reminded supporters that political ambition should not eclipse humanity and shared values.
“Let us pursue a healthy contest, one that reflects our proper upbringing as sons and daughters of Cross River,” he said.
“Remember: life’s struggles, its cravings, its ambitions, they all amount to vanity at the end. What endures is character, community, and how we treated one another along the way, “he further said.
The senator also challenged fellow aspirants to remain grounded and attentive to public sentiment, warning against political denial.
“I only implore all of us, aspirants, to listen to the voices of our people and not live in denial of the obvious,” he stated pointedly.
“Finally, we remain one united APC family. Even as we further our divergent interests within this primary, we must never forget that after the votes are counted, we will still need each other. No ambition is worth destroying the conviviality we have shared amongst one another, “Jarigbe further said.
He concluded with a resonant appeal that encapsulates his campaign philosophy: “Campaign with passion, but campaign with honour.”
