By Eyo Charles
A clergyman and political leader in Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State, Patriarch Victor Owalum, has explained why he defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe.
Owalum said his decision was driven by loyalty and deep respect for Senator Jarigbe, who represents Cross River North Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
The clergyman, who is the Administrator of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star in the state, said he would remain politically aligned with Jarigbe regardless of party affiliation.
Speaking with our correspondent on Sunday during his episcopal visit to Calabar, Owalum described Senator Jarigbe as a humble, selfless and people-oriented leader whose style of politics is anchored on service and integrity.
He noted that both of them had been influential political figures in their respective areas and that Jarigbe had always placed trust in him, particularly in communities under his sphere of influence in Yala.
According to Owalum, his defection to the APC, alongside his supporters, followed explanations given by the senator on the political necessity of the move.
“As a result of my loyalty and respect for my political leader, I had no choice but to follow him. My supporters also understood my position and moved with me,” he said.
The educationist also revealed that he rejected lucrative offers from political opponents of the senator during the 2023 senatorial election.
“During the campaign, Jarigbe’s opponents invited me to a meeting and offered me N10 million, a car and a house to abandon him,” Owalum disclosed.
“They believed my large support base could tilt the election in their favour, but I rejected the offer outright,” he added.
Owalum said his decision was guided by principle and conscience, noting that he had already pledged total support to Jarigbe.
“My word is my bond. I had assured him of my support and I could not betray that trust. My conscience would not allow it,” he said.
He further commended Senator Jarigbe’s performance in office, saying the lawmaker had made visible impacts across the senatorial district through infrastructure projects and empowerment programmes.
“Jarigbe has positively touched the lives of more than half of his constituents through arrays of infrastructure. His record speaks for itself,” Owalum stated.
