Senator Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North, has urged political actors and supporters in the senatorial district to focus on issues rather than personal attacks during the upcoming election cycle. Speaking to constituents, Jarigbe emphasized the need for campaigns grounded in policy, development, and public service rather than insults or divisive language. He called for a political environment that encourages constructive debate and discourages rhetoric that threatens social cohesion. The senator stressed that leadership should be pursued through transparency and accountability, not through character assassination or tribal and religious polarization.
Jarigbe highlighted the importance of allowing voters to make informed choices based on candidates' track records and proposed solutions to local challenges. He warned that resorting to name-calling and inflammatory statements undermines democratic progress and erodes public trust in governance. His appeal comes amid growing concern over the tone of political discourse in various parts of the country as electioneering intensifies. The senator reiterated his commitment to promoting peaceful engagement and urged political associations and individuals to adopt decorum in their campaigns. He also encouraged grassroots participation in politics, noting that sustainable development begins with responsible leadership.
When Jarigbe calls for issue-based campaigns, he is directly challenging the prevailing norm of personality-driven politics in Cross River North. His warning against insults and divisive rhetoric suggests a recognition that elections in the zone are often won through mobilization along ethnic or religious lines, not policy. This appeal may signal an attempt to shift voter expectations—especially as he positions himself as a reform-minded candidate. But without enforcement mechanisms, such calls risk being seen as symbolic rather than transformative.
