Ogoja, Cross River – The political landscape in Ogoja Local Government Area has been rattled by the resignation of Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, the Vice Chairman, from the All Progressives Congress (APC). 
In a strongly worded letter, Yakubu cited a litany of grievances against the Chairman, Hon. Chris Agbeh, accusing him of running a “one-man show” and perpetually marginalizing his office and supporters.
Yakubu, who described his decision as coming with a “heavy heart,” detailed numerous instances of alleged ill-treatment and lack of inclusion by Chairman Agbeh. He claims that despite public perception of a good working relationship, he has “perpetually been kept out in the scheme of things.”
Among the specific accusations leveled by the former Vice Chairman are:
Exclusion from Decision-Making: Yakubu asserts that Chairman Agbeh has never sought his input on critical council matters, including appointments, committees, projects, or even empowerment initiatives. He states that no EXCO meetings have been held to discuss or deliberate on issues, indicating a centralized and unilateral approach to governance.
Disrespect and Disregard: Yakubu recounts an incident where the Chairman allegedly “lashed out” at him in front of visitors when Yakubu attempted to brief him on an irrigation project committee he was invited to chair by the UNHCR, an organization under his purview as Vice Chairman.
Financial Grievances: The Vice Chairman claims that funds allocated by the State Government for office renovations were not extended to his office, forcing him to use personal funds for renovations that have not been reimbursed. He also alleges that Chairman Agbeh has failed to refund money paid by Yakubu for his CROSIEC forms before the election, as well as funds borrowed after their inauguration.
Lack of Official Accommodation: Yakubu states that he has been denied access to his official quarters and has been living at the OQUANGO Hotel at his own expense since his inauguration, with no accommodation payments made to him.
Neglect of Political Structure: He expressed frustration over the lack of support from the APC leadership in sustaining a political structure in Urban Ward II, despite his significant efforts to encourage defections from the PDP, which reportedly concerned PDP leader Senator Jarigbe Agom.
Yakubu revealed that he had attempted to resign as Vice Chairman on two previous occasions but was disuaded by the Deputy Governor. He emphasized his refusal to be an “ambassador or conveyor of empty promises and political statements,” citing a decline in public confidence.
Despite his resignation from the party, Yakubu affirmed his commitment to the administration of Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, stating he would work earnestly to ensure his ward is delivered in the Governor’s favor, regardless of his political affiliation.
Chairman Chris Agbeh has yet to issue a public statement regarding these allegations. The resignation signals potential internal turmoil within the Ogoja APC and raises questions about governance practices within the local government council.
