ADC stalwart berates ruling party over oil wells’ altercation between Cross River, Akwa Ibom
ADC Member Criticizes APC for Oil Wells Dispute
CALABAR, Cross River State — Austine Ibok, a member of the African Democratic Party (ADC), has criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for its failure to resolve a protracted dispute between Cross River and Akwa Ibom states concerning the ownership of 76 oil wells.
The controversy stems from a 2012 Supreme Court ruling that awarded ownership of the wells to Akwa Ibom State. In a statement issued on Sunday, Ibok, who convenes the ADC Coalition Movement in Cross River, condemned the APC-led federal government’s alleged lack of a “sincere political solution” to the conflict.
“It is disappointing that, despite shared political alignment, the Federal Government has not demonstrated the leadership required to achieve an amicable resolution,” Ibok stated. He noted that this inaction has exacerbated economic challenges and stalled development opportunities in Cross River.
Having recently defected from the APC, Ibok praised Governor Bassey Otu for his determination in seeking the recovery of lost assets, including the Tinapa Business Resort and the disputed oil wells. He believes the governor’s commitment reflects a desire to foster economic prosperity and self-reliance in the state.
Ibok criticized the Akwa Ibom government, characterizing its actions as greedy and detrimental to Cross River’s development, particularly affecting communities like Bakassi.
“The continued deprivation of our rightful economic assets is not only unjust but harmful to our people,” he said. He urged citizens both locally and abroad to rise above partisan interests and support the state government’s efforts in reclaiming their economic rights.
Ibok emphasized that this struggle transcends party lines and is a collective fight for justice and survival. He also indicated that the ADC plans to mobilize voters to remove the APC from power.
He urged Governor Otu to consider aligning with the ADC, warning that the time has come for “decisive change, responsible leadership, and a renewed commitment to justice for Cross River State.”
