Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Cross River, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, has called for issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 governorship election, urging political opponents to shun blackmail and personal attacks.
Archibong made the call in Calabar on Wednesday while reacting to a recent advertorial which he alleged was linked to the state government and intended to smear his reputation.
The candidate challenged anyone with evidence of criminal wrongdoing against him to make it public, insisting that he had no criminal record.
“I dare anyone with criminal records against me to make same public or forever remain silent,” he said.
Archibong said campaigns should centre on the state’s development challenges, candidates’ records and their plans for improving the lives of residents, rather than attacks on individuals.
He accused the state government and its supporters of promoting personality politics, alleging that the advertorial was designed to undermine his growing support across the state’s three senatorial districts.
He also criticised the administration over what he described as poor performance in infrastructure and human development.
Archibong further alleged that the government was planning to use cult groups to cause violence before, during, and after the 2027 elections.
“We are aware that this government is planning unprecedented violence through cultism before, during, and after elections, but we are not afraid because God is our shield and buckler,” he said.
Reacting, the All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed the allegation as baseless.
The APC State Publicity Secretary, Emmanuel Inyang, said the allegation was coming from a PDP that was allegedly unprepared to face the electorate.
Inyang said Cross River residents remained supportive of the APC because of what he described as the administration’s achievements in the state, adding that the PDP should prepare for the 2027 election.
