Former Cross River State governor, Ben Ayade, has openly lamented what he describes as years of neglect by the administration of President Bola Tinubu, even as he confirmed stepping down from his senatorial ambition.
Ayade, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), said he has remained without appointment for over three years despite his contributions to the ruling party.
The former governor revealed that he was directed to withdraw from the Cross River North senatorial race, a decision he said he accepted with deep emotional pain.
His words:” I dare not question his authority, but I challenge his conscience.
“According to 1 Timothy 5:18, the labourer deserves his wages. Therefore, I am worthy of a reward,” Ayade stated.
Ayade recounted his role as the first APC governor in the South-South, highlighting his financial and logistical support to the party, including donations to national conventions and provision of campaign vehicles and motorbikes.
He also noted that he pioneered early support for Tinubu’s presidential ambition, promoting the slogan: “If Tinubu can fix Lagos, Tinubu can fix Nigeria.”
“For over three years, I have been sidelined without appointment,” he lamented.
On the controversial senatorial ticket, Ayade alleged that the directive favours individuals who once opposed the party, claiming some were even involved in electoral violence.
“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
Despite his grievances, Ayade said he would comply with the directive.
“I yield to his request even as I pour tears of ill treatment and agony,” he said.
The development is believed to be part of efforts by the APC leadership to manage internal disputes ahead of the 2027 general elections, but Ayade’s outcry has now thrown fresh light on simmering tensions within the party.
