Sen. Jarigbe Agom-Jarigbe, representing Cross River North senatorial district, has called for a responsible, accountable, and transparent approach to politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Agom-Jarigbe made the remark to newsmen yesterday in Calabar, while reacting to the allegation that some of his supporters were abusing other aspirants.
He stated that politics, especially as the 2027 elections were approaching, should be played fairly and not with bitterness and acrimony.
He, however, frowned at the allegations and dissociated himself from the discourtesy towards aspirants to the senate seat in Cross River North.
The Senator said that he aimed for a more constructive relationship between politicians and their supporters.
Agom-Jarigbe, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Gas, noted that contesting for public office was a constitutional right.
“For me, I believe that everyone, regardless of background, origin, or political leaning has the inalienable right to aspire or contest”, he said.
While pointing out that such ambition was part of the democratic process, he disassociated himself from any of his associates who malign such prospective aspirants.
Agom-Jarigbe said he had always advocated for mature, issue-based engagement, and strongly condemn any form of disrespect or vitriol directed at those who had chosen to serve.
He said that while political competition was natural, it should never be a platform for bitterness or division.
According to him, we cannot all win at the same time, but we must always uphold respect for one another.
“To this end, I wish to make it clear that no one on my team, or claiming to speak on my behalf, has the authority to insult, discourage, or undermine any aspirant”, he said.
The Senator said that the true test of leadership was not just in winning elections but on how “we conduct ourselves before, during, and after the contest”.
“I remain committed to the service of the people of Cross River North and will always stand for fairness, civility, and progress”, Agom-Jarigbe said.
