Former Cross River State Governor, Senator Professor Ben Ayade, has announced his decision to suspend his ambition to contest the Cross River North Senatorial race following what he described as a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In an emotional statement released after returning from a high-level consultation in Abuja, Ayade said he chose to honour the President’s request despite expressing deep pain over what he termed 'ill treatment and agony.'
The former governor, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), highlighted his long-standing loyalty and contributions to the ruling party. He noted that he was the first APC governor in South-South Nigeria and played a key role in strengthening the party in Cross River State.
Ayade further alleged that those benefiting from the directive were previously opposed to him and the APC, accusing them of fueling religious tensions and instigating violence during past elections.
He emphasized his contributions to the party, including financial support, logistics, and grassroots mobilization, which he said helped secure historic electoral victories.
Despite his grievances, Ayade urged his supporters to remain calm and loyal to the President, stressing the importance of patience, unity, and faith.
He also advised his supporters not to proceed with the purchase of nomination forms, citing respect for constituted authority and adherence to biblical teachings on obedience to leadership.
Reflecting on his political journey, Ayade recalled that he had previously stepped down from contests in 2007 and 2015, only to later become a senator and two-term governor, expressing confidence in destiny and divine timing.
The development introduces a new twist in the political dynamics of Cross River North, with stakeholders closely monitoring potential outcomes within the APC.
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