By Joe Ephraim , Calabar
The Vice Chancellor of Arthur Jarvis University, Professor Joseph Ekpe Edet, has formally declared his intention to contest for the Cross River Southern Senatorial District seat under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a formal notice of intention made available to party leaders, stakeholders and the public, Edet said his decision to return to the race was driven by a renewed sense of responsibility, resilience and commitment to effective representation.
The legal scholar and former senatorial aspirant said his previous attempt at the position, though unsuccessful, provided valuable lessons and strengthened his resolve to serve the people of the district more effectively.
“This declaration is made with a deep sense of responsibility, humility and resilience,” he said, noting that the experience gained from his earlier bid had broadened his understanding of the needs of the people and better prepared him for public service.
Edet pledged commitment to transparent governance, inclusive representation and sustainable development, stressing that the Southern Senatorial District required experienced and responsive leadership capable of addressing its challenges through effective legislation and advocacy.
“Our people deserve consistent advocacy, effective legislation and leadership that listens, learns and delivers,” he stated, while seeking the support of party members and constituents as he formally joins the race.
Edet, a professor of law, holds a first degree in law, a Master’s degree in Public Administration, a Master of Laws and a PhD in Constitutional and Administrative Law from the University of Calabar. He also obtained certificates in Academic Writing and Publishing as well as Creative and Contemporary Writing from Goldsmiths, University of London.
He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators and an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.
Currently serving as Vice Chancellor of Arthur Jarvis University, Edet previously held positions including Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Acting Dean of Law, Head of the Department of Jurisprudence and International Law, and Head of the Department of Private Law at the University of Calabar.
He has authored several textbooks and scholarly publications, including The Rule of Law and Constitutional Immunity in Nigeria, which was among books unveiled by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund in 2023, and Judiciary, Electoral Judgments and Democracy in Nigeria. He is also the author of Notes on Constitutional Law
.
Beyond academia, Edet served in two successive administrations of former Cross River governors Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke as a member of the state executive council. He also served as Cross River State Liaison Officer in Abuja and Senior Adviser on Strategic Policies.
Edet was also head of the sister-state project between Cross River State and the U.S. state of Maryland and previously contested for the Southern Senatorial District seat under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.
A Papal Knight of the Equestrian Order of Pope Saint Sylvester, Edet was knighted by Pope Francis and has also served as Grand Knight of the Order of the Knights of Saint Mulumba. He is married to Dr. Mary-Joe Edet and they are blessed with three children.
