From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
Opposition political parties in Cross River State have been urged to engage in constructive criticism rather than making unfounded comments and accusations on social media platforms.
Comrade Saviour Asuquo, Special Assistant to the Governor on Content Development, made the call in a statement issued to reporters in Calabar on Tuesday.
He said there was a growing perception in Cross River State that much of the criticism directed at Governor Bassey Otu was not necessarily about his performance in office, but about gaining access to the administration.
According to Asuquo, some political observers believe that people criticise Governor Otu not because he is failing, but in an attempt to attract his attention for political appointments or other opportunities.
He said the development reflected a sentiment that, for some critics, public condemnation had become a strategy to get noticed by the administration.
Rather than being an indictment of the governor’s performance, he said, some of the attacks were perceived as attempts to lobby for recognition, patronage or political appointments.
Asuquo noted that supporters of the governor maintained that, despite the criticism, the administration remained focused on delivering its “People First” agenda.
He urged those genuinely interested in the development of the state to engage the government through proper channels instead of resorting to media attacks.
According to him, as the administration enters the second half of its tenure, the debate also raises questions about how appointments are made and how citizens can engage the government constructively without resorting to what he described as “the politics of noise.”
Asuquo urged opposition parties to put aside political differences and join hands with the government to move Cross River State forward.
“Cross Riverians, let us come together and work for a better Cross River State. Governor Bassey Otu till 2031,” he said.
