THE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Cross River, Chief Arthur Archibong, has urged voters to put political affiliation aside and vote wisely in the 2027 elections.
Speaking with newsmen in Calabar on Thursday Archibong described the prevailing socio-economic situation in the state as “season of sorrows.”
He said the floods, landslides, erosion and recurring outbreaks of fire in the state were serious weaknesses which required emergency preparedness and response system.
Reacting to the recent fire incident at SPAR Shopping Mall in Calabar, the PDP candidate said the incident highlighted the poor condition of the state’s fire service.
“Only one fire truck came from the state fire service and the outdated truck arrived without water because they are operating from an uncompleted building without a functional water reservoir along Mary Slessor.
“Firefighters even complained of having no diesel to source for water. If this can happen in a state capital, imagine the scenario in other parts of the state,” he said.
Archibong said the incident was a wakeup call for the state government to urgently strengthen emergency response infrastructure across the state.
He said a state seeking to attract businesses and investments must also have the capacity to protect lives, property and investments during emergencies.
The PDP flag bearer also recalled recent landslides in Calabar, including the Ikot Anwatim disaster, where five persons, including four children from the same family, died.
He further cited the landslide at Boro Pit in Satellite Town, which claimed the life of a nine-year-old child among others.
“These were not statistics; they were lives abruptly extinguished and families permanently scarred,” Archibong said.
He also criticised the state’s response to fire outbreaks, noting that government had previously acknowledged the deteriorating condition of the state fire service and announced plans for its revival.
“Disaster response is not a reward for political loyalty. Fire and rescue services are not political settlements,” he said.
Archibong promised that, if elected governor in 2027, his administration would adequately equip emergency agencies with water, fuel, vehicles, personnel and other resources required for rapid intervention.
He also called for sustained rehabilitation of disaster victims, saying the government’s responsibility should extend beyond visiting victims immediately after disasters.
“People first must mean more than visiting victims after disaster. It means standing with them until they can rebuild their lives,” he said.
As the 2027 elections approach, Archibong urged Cross River people to assess candidates beyond their political affiliations.
“Do not allow party affiliation to blind you to the reality of how you and your family are living,” he urged.
The PDP candidate said voters should demand competence, accountability and effective emergency management from those seeking their mandates.
He stressed that although government could not control rainfall or prevent every disaster, it could anticipate danger, prepare relevant institutions and protect vulnerable communities.
He, therefore, urged Cross River residents to use their votes wisely by choosing candidates capable of putting the safety and welfare of citizens first. (NAN)
A.I
Aug. 27, 2026
Tags: Chief Arthur Archibong
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