By Nsan Ndoma-Neji, Calabar
The Cross River State chapter of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, has denied the allegation made in some quarters that governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, pays monthly subvention to political parties through IPAC.
A news publication had on June 11, 2026 alleged that Governor Otu pays a consistent monthly subvention to political parties through IPAC.
But, IPAC in a statement signed by its chairman, Engr. Effiom Edet Okon and made available to our correspondent in Calabar yesterday, described the report as “misleading and inaccurate,” stressing that the claim has drawn its attention for setting the record straight.
He said, “Let this be stated clearly, firmly and without ambiguity, that at no time has IPAC or any registered political party in Cross River State received monthly or continuous subvention from the state government.”
IPAC stressed that the allegation of a steady payment structure is “false, misleading and a gross misrepresentation of facts.”
IPAC disclosed that the only support received from the state government were three separate, non-recurring disbursements.
The statement added that the subventions were made in “June, September, and December 2025.“
It added that these were isolated interventions, not a policy, not a system and certainly not a monthly arrangement as falsely reported.”
The Cross River IPAC also faulted the description of its office as a “two-bedroom apartment,” stressing that its secretariat is “a well-furnished and functional secretariat, made possible through the generosity and support of the Governor Otu.
IPAC said, “This contribution has significantly enhanced the operational capacity of IPAC in Cross River State.”
IPAC’s statement warned that the council would not tolerate information that would mislead the general public or undermine the integrity of political institutions in the state.
IPAC further challenged any party, group of persons or news outfit with contrary evidence to make it public, adding that failure to do so amounts to falsehood.
Reaffirming its role, IPAC said it remains “a neutral, advisory body, committed to strengthen democracy, promote peaceful political engagement and support good governance.
IPAC cautioned mischief makers who are bent on tarnishing the integrity of the organisation built over the years to be careful to avoid running into problems with the council.
IPAC Tasks Gov Otu On Inclusiveness, Merit
By Nsan Ndoma-Neji, Calabar
The Cross River State chapter of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, has urged Governor Bassey Otu to ensure appointments reflect the collective will of voters, stressing that selections must transcend party lines and not be limited to the ruling All Orogeessives Congress, APC, members only.
Cross River IPAC chairman, Engr. Effiom West Okon, gave the advice yesterday in a letter addressed to the governor, while reacting to new appointments.
He wrote, “Your Excellency, the power to make appointments rests squarely with you as the governor. That authority is not in dispute.
“However, what must not be ignored is the source of that authority.”
The advisory group averred that the governor’s mandate was delivered by Cross Riverians across party, religious, ethnic and social divides.
It added, “Your mandate was not delivered by members of a single political party alone. It was built on the collective will of Cross Riverians, cutting across party lines, religious affiliations, ethnic identities and social divides.
“Men and women who are not members of the APC stood in the sun, cast their votes and entrusted you with leadership.”
IPAC warned against reducing appointments to a reward system for party loyalty, adding, “Appointments cannot, and must not, be reduced to a reward system for party loyalty alone. That approach diminishes the spirit of democracy and undermines the broad-based mandate you now hold.”
The council advocated an inclusive approach to appointments, saying it carries moral and democratic weight.
It added, “Appointments should reflect inclusiveness, fairness, and merit. Competence, integrity, capacity and commitment to the development of Cross River State should take precedence over partisan considerations.”
It further described an inclusive government as “a demonstration of strength, confidence and respect for democracy, adding that it fosters unity, stabilizes the political environment and builds lasting trust in leadership.”
IPAC further enthused, “Political parties may contest elections. But governance belongs to the people. Let your appointments reflect that undeniable truth.”
