2027: Cross River PDP Candidate Accepts Otu’s Debate Challenge, Demands Governor’s Presence

The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, Arthur-Javis Archibong, has expressed readiness to engage Governor Bassey Otu in a public debate ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

Speaking in Calabar, Archibong said he was willing to participate in the debate at any venue and time chosen by the governor, provided Otu attends in person.

According to him, voters deserve to hear directly from candidates seeking to lead the state rather than through representatives. He noted that while he respects the state Commissioner for Information, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham, the commissioner is not a candidate in the election and therefore not the appropriate person for such an engagement.

Archibong also criticised the current administration’s handling of key challenges in the state, including recent emergencies such as landslides and the fire outbreak at the SPAR Shopping Mall in Calabar. He questioned the impact of several government agreements and foreign engagements, asking the administration to show tangible projects, jobs and economic benefits resulting from them.

The PDP candidate urged the government to focus on improving the welfare of residents and addressing pressing issues affecting the state’s development.

Expressing sympathy to traders and business owners affected by the SPAR fire incident, Archibong pledged that if elected, his administration would strengthen emergency response services and provide the necessary resources for effective firefighting operations.

He also defended Arthur Jarvis University, which he founded, against criticisms, stating that the institution continues to contribute to the state through education and employment opportunities.

Archibong maintained that the 2027 governorship election should be decided by ideas, competence and proven capacity to deliver results rather than intimidation, money politics or personal attacks.

He added that Cross River residents deserve responsive and accountable leadership that remains connected to the people and addresses their concerns directly.