By Kelvin Ololo
A fresh wave of political debate has been ignited in Cross River State following a bold public statement by Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, who has called for a grassroots referendum to determine the preferred candidate for the Cross River North senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 elections.
Jarigbe who is the current Senator representing the district in the 10th National Assembly gave the challenge in a strongly worded post shared on Facebook. The senator dismissed what he described as “intellectual politics and infantile gossips,” urging stakeholders to move beyond prolonged debates and allow the people to directly decide.
He proposed a physical convergence in Cross River North where constituents can openly express their choice through a referendum-style process.
Jarigbe argued that all major contenders for the seat have previously served the people in different capacities, insisting that a people-driven decision would provide legitimacy and reduce internal political friction. He specifically called on Benedict Ayade and Legor Idagbo to “meet him back home,” signaling a direct challenge to key political figures believed to be interested in the senatorial race.
The senator’s proposal, though unconventional within Nigeria’s electoral framework, is widely interpreted as a strategic move to position himself as a populist candidate while subtly pressuring rivals into a public show of strength. Analysts note that by advocating a referendum, Jarigbe is attempting to shift the contest from elite negotiations and party structures to a people-centric validation process.
With the 2027 general elections approaching, the statement points to three emerging political realities in Cross River North.
These realities include; intensifying power struggle in the direct mention of high-profile figures like Ayade and Legor, underscores an impending three-way contest that could redefine the district’s political alignment. Populist message which position Jarigbe’s rhetoric suggests a deliberate appeal to grassroots sentiment, positioning himself as the candidate of the people against perceived political elitism.
And internal party friction which may have prompted the call for a referendum reflecting unresolved tensions within party ranks, where consensus on candidacy appears increasingly difficult.
While the idea of a referendum resonates politically, Nigeria’s electoral laws, governed by the Independent National Electoral Commission, do not formally recognize such a process for candidate selection. This raises questions about whether the proposal is symbolic, consultative, or a precursor to a broader political strategy.
However, observers believe the statement marks an early signal of what could become a highly competitive and possibly divisive race in Cross River North. As conversations shift from private negotiations to public mobilization, the region may witness increased political engagement, alliances, and rhetoric in the months ahead.
If sustained, Jarigbe’s stance could redefine campaign dynamics in the district, forcing opponents to either accept a people-driven contest or risk being portrayed as disconnected from grassroots sentiment.
Since You Are Here, Support Good JournalismCrossRiverWatch was founded on the ideals of deploying tech tools to report in an ethical manner, news, views and analysis with a narrative that ensures transparency in governance, a good society and an accountable democracy. Everyone appreciates good journalism but it costs a lot of money. Nonetheless, it cannot be sacrificed on the altar of news commercialization. Consider making a modest contribution to support CrossRiverWatch's journalism of credibility and integrity in order to ensure that all have continuous free access to our noble endeavor. CLICK HERE |
New Feature: Don't miss any of our news again.Get all our articles in your facebook chat box.Click the Facebook Messenger Icon below to subscribe now
Text Advert by CRWatch :Place Yours
Will You To Learn How To Make Millions Of Naira Making Special Creams From Your Kitchen?.Click Here
Expose Your Business And Make More Sales. Advertise On CrossRiverWatch.com Today
Leave feedback about this