The former governor of Cross River State, Prof Ben Ayade, has expressed his grievances over being sidelined and left without an appointment for three years by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, despite his efforts for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ayade, who joined the APC from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made these remarks in a statement responding to a presidential directive requiring him to withdraw his senatorial bid for the Cross River North district.
”I dare not question his authority, but I challenge his conscience,” he said. “According to 1 Timothy 5:18, the labourer deserves his wages. Therefore, I am worthy of a reward,” Ayade stated.
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The ex-governor pointed out that he was the first APC governor in the South-South region, contributed significantly to the party’s national convention, provided vehicles and motorbikes, and is currently operating a free transportation program to support Tinubu’s 2027 re-election.
Ayade noted that he was the first APC governor to suggest Tinubu as the 2023 candidate with “right of first refusal” and was the author of the slogan: “If Tinubu can fix Lagos, Tinubu can fix Nigeria.”
“For over three years, I have been sidelined without appointment,” he lamented.
Regarding the senatorial ticket, Ayade claimed the president’s order benefits those who “fought against the party,” including people who were allegedly armed with guns and machetes at collation centers, citing existing police records.
“Mr President may not be aware that the beneficiaries of his order are people armed against us, yielding a ticket to a newcomer from the opposition just under five months is a spiritual murder,” he bemoaned.
“I yield to his request even as I pour tears of ill treatment and agony,” he said.
