Ani Bassey,
Calabar
A major support group for President Bola Tinubu in Cross River State has threatened to withdraw political support for the President over what it described as prolonged neglect and unfair treatment of the state.
The National Patriotic Front for Tinubu (NPFFT) announced the decision in a statement saying it was temporarily suspending mobilisation and support for the President pending urgent redress of grievances affecting the state.
According to the group, Cross River has consistently contributed to the political strength of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Federal Government, but has been treated as an afterthought in appointments, infrastructure and political recognition.
“This decision is not taken lightly. Political support must be accompanied by fairness, inclusion and tangible attention to the legitimate interests of the people of Cross River State,” the group said.
In a six-point demand signed by its Director General, Castro Ezama, National Secretary, Hon. Musa Zubairu, National Organising Secretary, Hon. Charles Obi, and Cross River State Director General, Mr Edem-Obong Benjamin Effiom, the NPFFT called on President Tinubu to urgently visit Cross River and engage directly with stakeholders, including traditional rulers, youths, women and the business community.
The group also demanded the rescheduling of the proposed November 2 presidential rally in the state to allow for wider consultation and mobilisation.
Other demands include the restoration of Cross River's status as an oil-producing state, the appointment of a Cross River indigene as substantive Chief Medical Director of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Calabar, and a transparent review of outstanding promotions affecting Cross River indigenes in the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
The NPFFT further demanded the return of the APC National Women Leader position to Cross River State, citing the need for equitable representation.
The group stressed that the temporary withdrawal of support was not a declaration of permanent opposition but a political signal to press for urgent engagement.
“We remain open to dialogue with the Presidency and the leadership of the ruling party. However, political support cannot be taken for granted. It must be earned through fairness and respect for the legitimate aspirations of the people,” it stated.
The group urged its members and supporters to remain calm and law-abiding while awaiting a response from the Presidency.
Post a Comment