Senator Agom Jarigbe, the All Progressives Congress (APC) representative for Cross River North Senatorial District, has urged political actors and supporters to adopt issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking in Calabar on Saturday through a statement titled "A piece of my thought," Jarigbe called for civility, warning against insults, personal attacks and divisive rhetoric. He specifically cautioned his supporters against using abusive language toward opponents, naming former Governor and fellow aspirant Senator Ben Ayade as a "formidable" contender. "No insult, no personal attack, no abusive language. We are better than that," Jarigbe said. He emphasized that campaigns should focus on ideas rather than character assassination.
Jarigbe stressed the need to respect the office of the governor, whether current or former, stating, "That office commands our collective dignity." He urged critiques of performance rather than personal abuse, reminding supporters that "no man is infallible." Reflecting on leadership, he highlighted the importance of character, community and mutual respect. He also called on all aspirants to remain grounded in grassroots realities and avoid political denial. Party unity within the APC was another key point, with Jarigbe warning that internal divisions could weaken the party post-primaries. "No ambition is worth destroying the conviviality we have shared," he said. The senator represents a district comprising Bekwarra, Obanliku, Obudu, Ogoja and Yala.
Agom Jarigbe is asking for a campaign tone he knows doesn't exist in Nigerian politics, not even within his own party. His appeal to reject insults while naming Ben Ayade as a rival does the opposite of calming tensions—it spotlights the very rivalry he claims to downplay. When a sitting senator frames respect as a demand, it reveals how thin the veneer of civility really is. For Cross River North voters, this plea for decency sounds less like a roadmap and more like damage control.
