By Kelvin Obambon
Barr. James Ibor, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Yakurr 1 State Constituency seat in the Cross River House of Assembly, has criticized the current legislative arm of government, describing it as an “appendage” and extension of the executive arm.
Speaking on his legislative ambitions and the state of governance, shortly after the announcement and affirmation of PDP governorship candidate in Calabar on Sunday, Ibor alleged that a culture of bribery has completely undermined the constitutional principle of checks and balances, stalling development across the state.
“I have observed over time that the legislative house, from local government to the state to the National Assembly, has become an appendage, not just an appendage, an extension of the executive arm,” he said. “That is not legislation. Every executive bill that leaves the state house to the legislative house goes there with an envelope. Anytime you hear them fight, it means somebody has converted that envelope.”
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The legal practitioner turned politician expressed worry over the lack of critical debate on the floor of the house, noting that the absence of a viable opposition has left the state heavily indebted.
“There is no robust argument, examination or review of proposals. Our state is highly indebted and there is zero opposition. Everything is ‘the ayes have it.’ Our legislators are representing their pockets,” he said, pointing out that lawmakers often prioritize securing personal loans and real estate over public service immediately after inauguration.
Addressing concerns about how he would function as a single progressive voice within a 25-member parliament, the renowned civil rights activist dismissed the notion that he would be isolated or intimidated.
“My mantra has always been taking the battle to the enemy. I am taking the battle to the enemy camp. My only distraction will be the fight. Of course, I don’t expect them not to fight back, but I will not be distracted,” Ibor vowed.
He maintained that the backing of civil society organizations, his constituents, and advocates for good governance would ensure he is never a “lone voice” in the assembly.
When asked about the leadership capacity of the party’s governorship candidate, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, and another prominent candidate, John Ifere of Central Senatorial District, Ibor expressed strong confidence in their private sector backgrounds.
Reflecting on Jarvis’s business acumen, Ibor said he is a very successful businessman and if he brings that into governance in our state, I have no doubt in my mind that he will make a good leader.”
Advising voters ahead of the 2027 polls, the state house candidate urged Cross Riverians to reject superficial cash handouts and instead vote for competence to arrest the soaring cost of living.
“My advice to the electorates is to vote capacity, not to vote because of the 1,000 naira that they keep sharing to them. If you continue to do what you did yesterday, it means fuel that has tripled today will be times 10 tomorrow. We must do things differently if we must succeed.”
