FG’s Inaction on 76 Oil Wells Disappointing, Says ADC Chieftain

By BANNERNEWS Reporter
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Cross River State, Austine Ibok, has expressed disappointment over the federal government’s apparent inability to resolve the protracted dispute between Cross River and Akwa Ibom states over ownership of 76 oil wells.
The Supreme Court has twice ruled in favor of Akwa Ibom State, but federal agencies are still examining technical aspects of the matter, delaying final resolution.
In a statement from Calabar, Ibok, a former Labour Party chairman in the state, criticized the Federal Government for failing to demonstrate the leadership, neutrality, and statesmanship needed to settle the dispute amicably.
“We condemn the failure of the APC-led Federal Government to deploy a sincere political solution in resolving the oil well dispute between two sister states governed by the same political party,” he said.
Ibok, who also convenes the ADC Coalition Movement in Cross River State, warned that the federal government’s inaction has prolonged economic hardship and stalled development in the state. He stressed that the welfare and dignity of Cross Riverians should not continue to suffer due to poor leadership and lack of political will at the federal level.
He added that a new federal government under the ADC would prioritize dialogue, fairness, and political solutions to ensure both states benefit equitably in the true spirit of unity and federalism.
While critical of the federal government, Ibok commended Governor Bassey Otu for his courage and determination in pursuing the recovery of lost assets, including the Tinapa Business Resort and the disputed oil wells. “His commitment reflects a genuine desire to reposition Cross River State for prosperity and self-reliance,” he said.
He urged all Cross Riverians—home and diaspora, traditional rulers, youths, women groups, civil society, and political parties—to rise above partisan interests and support the state government’s efforts to reclaim economic rights. “This is not a partisan struggle; it is a collective fight for justice, economic survival, and the future of our children,” Ibok emphasized.
Despite the praise, Ibok confirmed that the ADC intends to challenge the ruling APC and called on the state governor to align with the right party to avoid the bandwagon effect of the ADC coalition in 2027. “The time has come for decisive change, responsible leadership, and renewed commitment to justice for Cross River State,” he said.
He concluded: “The ADC Coalition Movement in Cross River State and Bakassi Local Government calls on all lovers of our state to support the African Democratic Congress as the credible and viable alternative in 2027.”
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