Political Analyst Warns Cross River APC: Losing Prof. Akpagu Could Be a Costly Mistake Ahead of 2027

Political Analyst Warns Cross River APC: Losing Prof. Akpagu Could Be a Costly Mistake Ahead of 2027

 

A respected political analyst and public affairs commentator, Inyali Peter, has raised alarm over the potential defection of Professor Zana Akpagu from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing it as a looming strategic misstep for the ruling party in Cross River State.

 

In a statement shared on his Facebook page, Peter urged the APC leadership to act swiftly to retain Prof. Akpagu, describing him as one of the party’s most valuable assets in Cross River North ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“As a founding member of the APC, I’m concerned about the party’s lack of strategy in its bid to win Cross River North in 2027,” Peter stated. “Losing Prof. Zana Akpagu now would be a huge blow to the APC, and an even bigger gain for the PDP.”

 

Peter warned that the APC leadership appears to be repeating past mistakes by failing to recognize and reward political value, particularly in a volatile and competitive district like Cross River North. He added that Senator Jarigbe Agom, the PDP incumbent, remains a formidable opponent with grassroots support and political savvy that transcends party loyalty.

 

“The Senator is playing a populist game that could see him switch parties while maintaining his seat. His eyes are on Prof. Akpagu, and for good reason — Akpagu is possibly the only person in the district capable of unseating him,” Peter remarked.

 

The political analyst suggested that the Senator’s strategy is to weaken any real opposition before the race begins by luring strong challengers like Prof. Akpagu out of the APC. He emphasized that ignoring the warning signs would be dangerous for the party.

 

Peter also pointed to emerging realignments in the state, including the anticipated defection of Rep. Peter Akpanke from the PDP to the APC, as a golden opportunity to restructure the party’s base and secure multiple electoral wins in 2027.

 

“With Akpanke and Akpagu on APC tickets for the House of Representatives and Senate respectively, the party could make a strong showing in Obudu, Obanliku, and potentially even split votes in Bekwarra and Yala,” he said. “But this strategic edge disappears if Akpagu defects.”

 

He also criticized suggestions of a political comeback by former Governor Ben Ayade, warning that the factors that led to his loss in 2023 still persist and may work against the APC if he emerges as the party’s candidate once again.

 

“Governor Bassey Otu’s infrastructural push in the North is commendable, but it won’t automatically translate into support for the former Governor,” Peter noted. “Repeating the same failed formula without new ideas is a recipe for defeat.”

 

Inyali concluded with a call for the APC to urgently address any grievances Prof. Akpagu may have and to recognize his political value before it’s too late.

 

“A stitch in time saves nine,” Peter warned, urging the party leadership to act before the 2027 elections slip from their grasp.