By Dr. John Bassey Eku
I read one article written by Mr. Eteng Ikpi Ubi and I need to put the records straight in order not to turn this exercise into a political jamboree.
Politics should never descend into bitterness, exaggeration or deliberate distortion of facts. Criticism is legitimate in democracy but fairness and truth are equally important.
The attempt to paint Senator Eteng Jonah Williams as a failure is not only misleading but also ignores the realities of governance and the visible strides he has made for the people of Cross River Central Senatorial District.
First, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams inherited enormous political and developmental expectations at a difficult economic period in Nigeria. Despite these constraints, he has remained one of the most accessible and influential political figures from Cross River Central.
His interventions in empowerment programs, youth support initiatives, educational assistance, employment facilitation, infrastructure advocacy and constituency engagements are well known across the district.
Unlike emotional propaganda, governance must be measured with facts and results. Senator Eteng has consistently used his office and influence to attract opportunities to the Central Senatorial District while also maintaining strategic relationships at the national level that benefit our people politically and economically.
Politics is not conducted on social media noise alone; it is built on influence, relationships, ranking, negotiation, and institutional experience.
It is therefore unfair to compare Senator Eteng Jonah Williams with Hon. Oden Ewa in terms of political reach, legislative exposure and national influence.
Hon. Oden Ewa may have served as Commissioner, but managing a ministry under a governor is entirely different from navigating the complexities of the Nigerian Senate, where experience, alliances, ranking, and legislative understanding matter immensely.
The people of Cross River Central should understand the enormous advantage of retaining a high-ranking Senator who already understands the corridors of power in Abuja.
Seniority in the National Assembly is not a ceremonial asset; it translates into stronger committee influence better lobbying power, increased federal presence and greater opportunities for constituency projects and appointments.
Throwing away experience for mere political excitement may ultimately weaken the district’s voice at the national level. It is also important to note that Senator Eteng Jonah Williams has stood firmly with the administration of Governor Bassey Otu and has remained loyal and supportive of the “People First” agenda. Loyalty, stability and continuity are virtues that should be rewarded in politics not punished.
No leader is perfect and constructive criticism will always exist but attempting to create a false narrative of total rejection is far from reality.
The Central Senatorial District is politically sophisticated enough to distinguish between temporary political noise and genuine leadership capacity.
Rather than tearing down one of our own, we should consolidate political strength, preserve legislative experience and continue building strategic relevance for Cross River Central at the national level.
Finally, I respectfully appeal to His Excellency, Governor Bassey Edet Otu, to graciously support Senator Eteng Jonah Williams with a return ticket.
The Senator stood firmly with the Governor through difficult political times and such loyalty, experience and institutional value deserve continuity for the overall benefit of Cross River Central Senatorial District.
History has shown repeatedly that when a people retain experienced and highly connected legislators, the entire district benefits immensely.
Cross River Central deserves continuity, influence, stability and experienced representation.
