By Kelvin Obambon
The incumbent member representing Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Victor Abang, PhD, has officially declared his intention to seek a second term in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a formal declaration address before constituents and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abang – popularly known by supporters as “Mature” – framed his bid as a quest to consolidate the “foundation-building” efforts of his first term.
Reflecting on his tenure since being sworn in on June 13, 2023, Abang highlighted a robust legislative portfolio. He pointed to several key bills he has sponsored aimed at institutional growth within the constituency, including the establishment of the Federal College of Agriculture (Forestry), Okundi; the Federal College of Education Technical, Ikom; the Federal Medical Centre, Boki, and critical amendments to the Labour Act and the National Park Service Bill.
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Beyond the floor of the House, the lawmaker highlighted his advocacy on sensitive border issues, specifically the international boundary disputes between Nigeria and Cameroon and the security of communities like Okwa and Bamba.
Abang also hinged his declaration on the “seniority logic” of the parliamentary system. He cautioned constituents against the risks of replacing experienced representatives with first-termers, arguing that impact in the National Assembly grows exponentially with tenure.
“Anyone who has studied the presidential system of democracy will tell you that the first tenure is often a period of learning and institutional navigation,” he stated. “Sustainable impact is built on continuity, experience, and the strengthening of our institutional voice over time.”
The lawmaker was candid regarding current national fiscal constraints. He acknowledged that reduced federal inflows had impacted the pace of certain interventions in the 2025 budget cycle, leading to the extension of some projects into 2026. However, he reassured the constituency that grassroots development – ranging from rural electrification and road infrastructure to agricultural support for farmers – remains a priority.
Abang used the platform to reaffirm his alignment with the “Renewed Hope” agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the “Season of Sweetness” administration of Cross River State Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu. He credited the Governor’s “People First” leadership for fostering a conducive environment for growth in the state.
As the 2027 political cycle begins to take shape, Abang’s declaration sets a high bar for the APC in Boki/Ikom, leaning heavily on a “servant-leadership” model and a plea for the constituency to allow his “foundation” to reach full maturity.
“Today, I return to you – not as a ruler, but as your servant – seeking once again the privilege to serve,” he concluded.
