Otu's Aide Denies Lack of Good Governance, Transparency As Reason For Some APC Members' Defection To Opposition

By Ndifreke BASSEY

The Commissioner for Information, Mr Erasmus Ekpang, has denied that lack of good governance and transparency as being responsible for defection of some All Progressives Congress (APC) to the opposition. People'a Democratic Party (PDP).

Ekpang, who spoke against the background of former Governor Ben Ayade's aide, Mr Joseph Afuo, alleging that APC's approach to governance has raised concerns about the erosion of democratic values and institutions.

Afuo, who has tendered his letter from APC would officially defect to PDP with some of hia supporlters on Saturday, March 30, 2024, added that Gov. Bassey Otu has reneged on his electoral promises to the people.

Afuo cited Instances of executive overreach, disregard for the rule of law, and suppression of dissenting voices as some of his misgivings against the ruling party in the state.

The former Ayade aide who is APC's top mobiliser in the Northern Senatorial District of the state, further said that the present administration has been characterised by a lack of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

He also said that the decision-making processes often appear opaque, with limited consultation and engagement with stakeholders, thereby undermining democratic principles and fostering a sense of disenchantment among the populace.

But reacting, Ekpang said Afuo should have been forthright than attributing lack of good governance and transparency for his defection.

Ekpang noted that the Bassey Otu-led government has scored many first since assumption of office in May 29, 2023.

Ekpang said: "Speaking of transparency, Otu has made it compulsory to make public resolutions of the State Executive Committee after every sitting.

"The governor has also kept to his People First Agenda matra and everyone can attest to what is happening in terms of Urban renewal in Calabar and other parts of the state.

"A lot have been achieved with just few months in office and we are not unaware that more still needed to be done," he stated.

Ekpang, who is the state's immediate past publicity secretary of the APC, acknowledged that Afuo is a "strong" member of the APC before his defection, saying he (Afuo) would come back to the fold in no time.

"He is simply on a temporary leave and am sure he will soon come back to us," he stated.