Etaba’s Performance Embarrassing and Shameful, APC Must Field a More Popular Candidate in 2027 — CNPP Writes APC National Chairman

The Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP), Cross River State chapter, has issued a strongly worded statement condemning what it describes as the “egregious, lame-duck, and embarrassing” performance of Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba, the current member representing Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

 

CNPP warned the All Progressives Congress (APC) that retaining Etaba as its candidate in the 2027 general election could lead to a resounding defeat at the polls, stressing that the constituency is now demanding “a more popular, visionary, and people-driven representative.”

The statement, signed by CNPP State Chairman, Mr. Patrick Ali and sent to News Week Nigeria, reflects growing political tension and dissatisfaction within the constituency as the 2027 elections approach. According to the group, the three-term lawmaker has failed to meet the expectations of the electorate and has allegedly not demonstrated the legislative productivity expected of a federal representative.

 

 

Constituency Background and High Expectations

 

The Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency, comprising Obubra and Etung Local Government Areas, is considered one of the politically significant blocs in Cross River State. The area is widely recognized for its cultural diversity, economic contributions, and the intellectual capital of its people.

 

Residents identify themselves as peace-loving, industrious, and deeply invested in the state’s development. Over the decades, the constituency has produced political heavyweights and technocrats who have played pivotal roles in Cross River and Nigeria at large. These include the late former Deputy Governor, Chief John Oyom Okpa, and current Senator John Owan-Enoh, both of whom are remembered for their strong leadership and reform-driven approach to governance.

 

Given this legacy, the CNPP said, the people of the constituency expect a high standard of representation—one they believe is not currently being met.

 

 

CNPP: Etaba’s Legislative Record “Nauseating, Opprobrious, Preposterous”

 

In its statement, the CNPP expressed grave concern over what it describes as Etaba’s “abysmal performance” at the National Assembly. While acknowledging that lawmakers play a central role in shaping national policy and driving constituency development, the group said Etaba’s output falls far below expectations.

 

“For the avoidance of doubt, the primary role of a legislator is to make laws,” the CNPP statement reads. “How many bills has he sponsored? What significant constituency projects can he point to after ten years in office?”

 

The organization further described his tenure as “a shame personified,” arguing that a third-term lawmaker should ordinarily be an asset to his constituency. Instead, the group insists that the reverse has been the case.

 

“There is no gainsaying the fact that it is an aberration for any team that worth its salt to field green horns in a highly competitive and crucial game, instead of experienced, proactive, and visionary players,” the statement added. “Regrettably, Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba has not demonstrated the experience or visionary leadership his office demands.”

 

 

Fear of APC Losing Constituency to Opposition in 2027

 

The CNPP’s strongest warning is directed at the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, both at the state and national levels. According to the statement, if Etaba is granted the party’s ticket in 2027, the APC may face an inevitable defeat.

 

“We are aware of his surreptitious plans to go back for the fourth term come 2027,” the group said. “But if this is allowed, APC shall lose to an opposition political party.”

 

The CNPP urged the APC leadership, particularly those with influence in Cross River State, to conduct independent assessments of Etaba’s performance. It insisted that its position was not driven by personal sentiment but by an objective evaluation of the lawmaker’s impact on constituents.

 

“As a man of integrity, we know you will not allow the APC to suffer shame in Cross River State,” the CNPP Chairman added, calling on the party to prioritize credibility, popularity, and people-oriented leadership in its selection process.

 

Community Dissatisfaction Growing Quietly

 

Although the CNPP has taken the bold step to make its criticisms public, political observers say murmurs of discontent within the constituency have been growing for some time. Some community leaders have privately complained about a lack of visible federal projects in both local governments.

 

Residents in parts of Obubra reportedly lament poor road conditions, limited economic empowerment initiatives, and what they perceive as insufficient government presence. Meanwhile, some stakeholders in Etung have spoken of being politically “abandoned” despite their contributions to the APC’s election victories in past cycles.

 

Local analysts say the CNPP’s public statement may embolden more civil society groups, traditional leaders, and party stakeholders to speak out in the coming months, especially as political alignments begin to shift ahead of the next general election.

 

 

Call for a “More Popular and People-Centric Candidate”

 

The CNPP rounded off its statement with a patriotic tone, emphasizing that its call is rooted in the desire to see the constituency regain its prominence and enjoy effective representation.

 

“We are blessed with bright minds, intellectuals, captains of industry, seasoned bureaucrats, administrators and politicians,” the group said. “We are confident that APC can find a more qualified and popular candidate capable of restoring the pride of the Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency.”

 

The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of loyalty to the Nigerian state, the APC, and the people of the constituency.

 

No Immediate Response Yet from Etaba

 

As at the time of filing this report, Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba has not issued an official response to the allegations raised by the CNPP. Efforts to reach his media aides for comment were unsuccessful.