By Kelvin Obambon
The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Cross River State Chapter, has called on the state’s elected representatives in the National Assembly, urging them to prioritize the protection and defense of the state’s strategic economic resources above partisan and personal affiliations.
In a press statement signed by IPAC State Chairman, Engr. Effiom Edet Okon, on Friday, the Council expressed deep concern over recent public discussions surrounding the ownership status of Cross River’s oil wells and broader economic assets.
Addressing Senators and Members of the House of Representatives from Cross River, IPAC emphasized that defending the state’s territorial and financial entitlements forms the core of their legislative mandate.
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“The primary responsibility [of elected representatives] is to defend, protect, and advance the collective interests of the people of Cross River State above personal, partisan, or sectional considerations,” the statement read.
Highlighting the long-standing sensitivity around the state’s oil assets, IPAC reiterated that every decision, policy negotiation, and legislative action must be handled with accountability, constitutional duty, and fairness to the citizens of the state.
“The issue of Cross River State’s oil wells remains a matter of significant economic importance to the state and its people. Consequently, every action, statement, negotiation, or legislative engagement concerning this subject must be guided by the principles of justice, equity, constitutional responsibility, and the overall welfare of Cross River citizens,” Okon stated.
The advisory body also called on political leaders across party lines to forge a united front in the National Assembly, noting that “the people of Cross River expect visible commitment, accountability, and proactive engagement from their representatives in protecting the state’s legitimate interests.”
Beyond internal legislative representation, IPAC directed a respectful appeal to high-ranking federal officials, specifically naming the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio. The council cautioned national figures against making reckless or inflammatory public remarks on delicate matters concerning Cross River’s land and resources.
“Public statements from highly placed leaders carry considerable weight and should always promote mutual respect, national unity, and confidence among affected communities,” IPAC cautioned, stressing that public officials must exercise restraint when addressing neighbouring territorial or resource disputes.
While reaffirming Cross River’s history of hospitality, peaceful coexistence, and regional cooperation, the council stressed that such warmth should not be mistaken for weakness or taken as a license to erode the state’s constitutional rights.
“Cross River State has a proud history of hospitality, peaceful coexistence, and accommodation. However, this spirit of brotherhood should never be interpreted as a basis for diminishing or compromising the legitimate rights, resources, and aspirations of the state and its people,” the statement added.
IPAC therefore concluded by reaffirming its stance to remain a constructive vehicle for democratic engagement, peaceful advocacy, and policy advocacy aimed at ensuring long-term prosperity for Cross River.
