By: Joseph Abasi-Abasi, Calabàr
The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Cross River State chapter, has urged members of the National Assembly from the state to unite in protecting the economic and strategic interests of Cross River, particularly over issues concerning its oil wells.
IPAC, in a statement signed by its State Chairman, Engr. Effiom Edet Okon,said elected representatives of the state should place the collective interests of Cross River citizens above personal, partisan or sectional considerations.
The council said the controversy surrounding the state’s oil wells and related issues of resource ownership and representation remained matters of significant economic importance to Cross River and its people.
It, therefore, urged the state’s senators and members of the House of Representatives to demonstrate unity of purpose and speak with one voice on issues capable of affecting the state’s economic future.
According to IPAC, the people of Cross River expect their representatives to demonstrate visible commitment, accountability and proactive engagement in defending the state’s legitimate interests.
The council said all actions, statements, negotiations and legislative engagements concerning the state’s oil-related interests should be guided by justice, equity, constitutional responsibility and the overall welfare of Cross River citizens.
IPAC also appealed to the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and other public officials to exercise caution in their public statements on sensitive matters relating to Cross River’s territorial, economic and oil interests.
It said public remarks by highly placed political leaders carried considerable weight and should promote mutual respect, national unity and confidence among affected communities.
The council acknowledged the contributions of national leaders and the cordial relationship between Cross River and neighbouring states, stressing that such relationships should be sustained through mutual respect.
It, however, said Cross River’s tradition of hospitality and peaceful coexistence should not be interpreted as a basis for compromising the legitimate rights, resources and aspirations of its people
.
“Cross River State has a proud history of hospitality, peaceful coexistence and accommodation of people from all parts of Nigeria and beyond,” the council said.
IPAC maintained that the state’s hospitality should coexist with efforts to protect its economic interests and legitimate claims.
The council further called for constructive dialogue and democratic engagement in addressing issues surrounding the state’s oil resources and other matters of strategic importance.
It said it remained committed to peaceful advocacy and initiatives aimed at strengthening the development, prosperity and future of Cross River State.
