Cross River State is at a critical juncture in its development, with pressing challenges that demand the full attention of all government officials. It is therefore, deeply concerning that Commissioner Oden Ewa, who oversees a critical Ministry such as the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, appears to have abandoned his primary responsibilities in pursuit of personal political ambitions for the 2027 Senatorial race.
Reports indicate that the Commissioner has already begun appointing ward coordinators and mobilizing support for an election that is still two years away – an election that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has not even outlined a timetable for. This premature politicking raises serious questions about his commitment to the office he currently holds and the people he was appointed to serve.
Governance Should Come First:
As Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Oden Ewa’s role is pivotal in ensuring effective coordination between different levels of government and driving key policies that benefit Cross River State and it’s people. However, his early campaign activities suggest a worrying shift in focus, from serving the public to serving his own political future.
If the Commissioner is genuinely passionate about representing Cross River Central Senatorial District in the Senate, he has two honorable options:
1. Resign and Pursue His Ambition Fully: If Commissioner Oden Ewa’s senatorial ambition is more important to him than his current role, he should honorably step down and allow someone else who is fully committed to take over the responsibilities of the office. Governance is not a part-time job, and the people of Cross River State deserve undivided attention from their leaders.
2. Stay and Deliver on His Mandate: If Commissioner Oden Ewa chooses to remain in office, he must refocus on his duties as Commissioner and halt all premature political activities. Cross River State cannot afford distracted leaders at a time when effective governance is needed to address insecurity, infrastructure deficits, and economic challenges.
A Dangerous Precedent:
Appointing ward coordinators for an election that is two years away is not just premature—it is a blatant misuse of political influence and state resources. It raises ethical concerns about whether public officeholders are leveraging their positions for personal gain rather than public good.
Moreover, such actions undermine public trust in governance. When citizens see their leaders more invested in future elections than in solving present problems, it breeds cynicism and disengagement. Cross River State needs leaders who are fully present, not those already eyeing the next political opportunity.
A Word of Caution:
Commissioner Oden Ewa must remember that leadership is about service, not self-aggrandizement. The people of Cross River State are watching, and history will judge him based on his contributions as Commissioner.
For now, the message is simple and clear: focus on delivering on governance, not 2027.
CENTRAL VOICE COALITION
