In the face of growing defections rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North Senatorial District, has declared unwavering loyalty to the party, insisting he has no intention of leaving despite mounting political pressures.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by members of the Cross River State Journalists Forum (CROSSJOF) at his Abuja residence, Senator Jarigbe emphasized that his allegiance lies with his constituents, who remain firmly rooted in the PDP.
“Our politics is local,” he stated. “If I go home and tell my people I’m defecting, they’ll say, ‘Go ahead, but we’re not following you.’ My people want to remain in the PDP, and I will stay with them. It’s not about fighting anyone—it’s about respecting the wishes of my senatorial district.”
While refraining from criticizing politicians who have recently switched parties, he acknowledged that such decisions may reflect the desires of their own constituencies.
Despite being a member of the opposition, the senator urged his constituents to support the APC-led Cross River State Government in delivering development to the grassroots. “We must avoid distractions and support the state government so that governance reaches the people,” he said.
A passionate advocate for regional development, Senator Jarigbe also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize the long-standing demand for the creation of Ogoja State, noting that it remains the only former province in Nigeria yet to be granted statehood.
“If there’s one state that deserves to be created in Nigeria, it’s Ogoja. I believe Mr. President will listen to us. Creating a state during a democratic dispensation would be historic,” he stated.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Gas, Jarigbe reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling his “social contract” with the people of Cross River North, citing numerous developmental projects and legislative interventions under his watch.
“Every ward in my senatorial district has at least one major project—whether it’s water supply, electrification, roads, school blocks, or laboratory equipment,” he said.
The senator highlighted the rehabilitation of the long-neglected Boki-Abakpa road and improvements in road access to his own village as key infrastructural achievements.
On education and youth empowerment, Jarigbe pointed to a range of initiatives, including scholarships facilitated through the NDDC and PTDF, ongoing bursary payments, and financial support for small businesses.
He also listed legislative efforts, such as a bill for the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre, which has reached the third reading stage in the Senate. However, he expressed disappointment that earlier bills for a Federal University of Technology and a Federal Polytechnic in Ogoja were declined—possibly due to his opposition status.
Undeterred, Senator Jarigbe concluded by pledging continued dedication to his constituents: “My focus remains on delivering results and standing by the people, regardless of the political climate.”
His stance comes as a powerful message amid increasing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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