Former Governor of Cross River State, Ben Ayade, has announced his decision to withdraw from the 2027 senatorial race for Cross River North following a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a statement released on Monday, Ayade disclosed that he was invited to Abuja for what he described as a high-level consultation with the Presidency. According to him, the outcome of the meeting made it clear that the President preferred he step aside from the race.
“I yield to his request even as I pour tears of ill treatment and agony,” Ayade stated, expressing both compliance and dissatisfaction with the directive.
Ayade Details Political Contributions to APC
Ayade, a former senator and two-term governor, highlighted his contributions to the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South-South region.
He noted that he was the first APC governor in the region, playing a key role in strengthening the party’s structure in Cross River State.
During the 2023 general elections, Ayade said he delivered a significant electoral advantage for the APC, outperforming the opposition in the state. He also recalled being among the earliest political figures to publicly support Tinubu’s presidential ambition.
Ayade popularized the campaign message: “If Tinubu Can Fix Lagos, Tinubu Can Fix Nigeria,” which became a notable slogan during the election season.
Claims of Marginalization and Appeal for Reconsideration
Despite his loyalty and contributions, Ayade expressed concern over what he described as years of political sidelining. He stated that he has not received any federal appointment since leaving office, even as he continues to support the administration.
The former governor also revealed that he is currently sponsoring a free transportation initiative aimed at mobilizing grassroots support for Tinubu’s expected re-election bid in 2027.
Appealing for a review of the directive, Ayade argued that denying him the opportunity to contest would be unfair to his constituency. He pointed out that Cross River North has only had eight years of senatorial representation under his influence, compared to his main opponent’s two decades in the National Assembly.
“Allowing another term for my opponent would effectively amount to a fourth term,” he said.
Political Implications for 2027 Elections
Ayade’s withdrawal could reshape the political dynamics in Cross River North ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Analysts suggest that internal party negotiations within the APC may influence candidate selection, especially in regions with competing interests and longstanding political rivalries.
While the Presidency has not officially commented on the matter, the development underscores ongoing strategic alignments within Nigeria’s ruling party as preparations for the next electoral cycle begin.