OPINION; WHY HON. CLETUS MBIA OBUN REMAINS THE MOST QUALIFIED CHOICE FOR IKOM/BOKI FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY
BY Otu John Eshua
Leadership is not about noise, propaganda, or temporary popularity. Leadership is about experience, courage, consistency, sacrifice, and proven commitment to the people. These are the qualities that distinguish Hon. Cletus Mbia Obun from many politicians of today.
Hon. Cletus Obun represented Boki State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly during the historic Donald Duke administration from 1999 to 2007 a period widely regarded as one of the most transformational eras in Cross River State.
During his time in the Assembly, Hon. Obun stood firmly on critical issues affecting Cross River State and Boki people in particular.
At a time when Cross River was battling the painful realities surrounding Bakassi and the controversial loss of oil wells, Hon. Cletus Obun was among the strong voices defending the interests of Cross River State. He consistently spoke against issues affecting boundary communities and remained vocal on matters relating to territorial integrity, resource control, and the protection of Cross River people.
Even today, Cross River continues to fight for its economic survival and oil wealth, yet many elected representatives remain silent. This is why experienced voices like Hon. Obun are urgently needed in the Green Chamber.
Hon. Obun was also part of the Assembly that championed educational advancement through the 2006 Free and Compulsory Universal Basic Education Law. As a representative from a rural constituency, he understood that education remains the greatest weapon against poverty, ignorance, and underdevelopment.
His passion for education did not end in office. For years, he has continued supporting students through WAEC assistance, educational sponsorships, and admission opportunities for young people across Boki.
Beyond education, Hon. Obun consistently raised concerns about infrastructure, roads, rural development, and security challenges affecting Boki communities. Long before insecurity became a national crisis, he understood the dangers posed by weak border security and community neglect.
Today, many of the issues he fought against have become realities. This proves that Hon. Cletus Obun is not just a politician, but a visionary leader ahead of his time.
Despite being out of government for many years, Hon. Obun has remained politically relevant and nationally respected. His influence did not disappear because true leadership is built on character, experience, relationships, and credibility not merely occupying public office.
This is a man who remained loyal to his political ideology even during difficult times. This is a man who sacrificed personal comfort for the growth of his party and the advancement of Cross River State.
At a time when the people of Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency are searching for effective representation, experience matters. Courage matters. Institutional memory matters. National connections matter.
The House of Representatives is not a place for political experimentation. It requires tested hands, courageous voices, and people who understand governance, legislation, and the struggles of the people. Obun possesses all these qualities.
The people of Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency now have an opportunity to send a man with proven legislative experience, deep political understanding, and genuine passion for the people.
