Addressing recent security concerns raised by political figures, All Progressives Congress chieftain and human rights advocate All Progressives Congress loyalist Obono-Obla asserted that Calabar remains one of the most secure urban centres in the country. Speaking during a television interview, he dismissed critiques of the state's safety conditions as mere hearsay far removed from daily realities in the Cross River State capital.
What are the specific security achievements highlighted by the APC chieftain?
According to Obono-Obla, the administration of Governor Bassey Otu has successfully restored public safety following a turbulent period prior to the current government's tenure. He noted that academic staff and medical professionals frequently faced abductions previously, but strategic interventions by the state government drastically reversed the trend. Key measures included the appointment of a retired military general as security adviser and robust logistical backing extended to federal law enforcement agencies operating within the territory.
Why did Obono-Obla criticise the former Vice President?
Targeting remarks made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the former presidential aide stated that it was unbecoming of a senior statesman to amplify unverified accounts concerning Calabar's security landscape. He maintained that the city continues to offer a peaceful environment for residents and visitors alike, contrary to the alarming impressions painted in public discourse.
How was the incident involving Peter Obi addressed?
Turning to the reported disruption during the campaign movement of Peter Obi, Obono-Obla minimized the gravity of the event. He characterized the stone-throwing incident as an isolated occurrence that occasionally transpires even in mature Western democracies during political exercises. Furthermore, he raised questions about whether internal party friction might have contributed to the confrontation rather than external hostility.