"This Isn't an Achievement But Continuous Slavery" — Chief Akpo Criticizes Ikobi's Appointment By Governor Otu

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The recent appointment of Hon. Ikobi A. Ikobi as Special Assistant on Stakeholders Engagement by Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has generated mixed reactions among political stakeholders and community members in Boki Local Government Area.

While Hon. Ikobi has publicly expressed gratitude to Governor Otu for the appointment, some family members and supporters have voiced concerns over what they describe as the continued marginalization of the Beebo people in the state's political structure.

One of the strongest reactions came from Chief Dr. Mathew Uba Akpo, who questioned the significance of the appointment and argued that it falls short of the political stature associated with the late Rev. B. O. Ikobi, a respected political figure whose influence extended across Cross River State.

According to Chief Akpo, the appointment does not reflect the contributions and legacy of the Ikobi family in the state's political development. He argued that previous administrations had similarly offered what he described as peripheral appointments to prominent sons of Beebo, rather than strategic positions capable of attracting meaningful development to the community.

He noted that while Hon. Ikobi had previously served as a member of the Carnival Commission under former Governor Ben Ayade, Governor Otu had now appointed him as Special Assistant on Stakeholders Engagement, a role he claimed does not adequately utilize his experience and political influence.

Chief Akpo further questioned why other political figures from different parts of the state had been considered for commissioner positions and other high-ranking offices while qualified individuals from Beebo were allegedly overlooked.

Beyond the appointment itself, the community leader raised broader concerns about governance and development in Boki Local Government Area. He alleged that despite increased allocations to local governments following the removal of fuel subsidy, there has been little visible infrastructure development in Boki.

He cited the poor condition of roads, schools and primary healthcare facilities across the area, including in Owambe community, and expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of development under the current administration.

Chief Akpo also accused the state government of concentrating appointments in certain parts of Cross River State while neglecting others, describing the trend as unfair and detrimental to equitable representation.

He called on residents and stakeholders to become more vocal in demanding accountability and development projects for their communities.

However, supporters of Hon. Ikobi have maintained that the appointment remains a recognition of his contributions and offers another opportunity to serve the people of Cross River State within the Otu administration.

As discussions continue, the development has sparked wider debate on political representation, appointments and equitable distribution of government opportunities across the various communities and senatorial districts of Cross River State.