Ex-lawmaker urges political maturity, unity in Cross River
By Cecilia Odey
Mr Clement Obun, ex-lawmaker in the Cross River State House of Assembly and House of Representatives aspirant, has urged enhanced political maturity and mutual understanding among leaders and citizens of the state.
Obun made the call during an interview with members of the Cross River State Journalists Forum (CROSSJOF), Abuja Chapter, on Thursday.
He urged all stakeholders to avoid divisive politics and misrepresentation of roles within democratic institutions.
He also criticised the resurgence of what he termed “old political fault lines” reminiscent of those witnessed during Nigeria’s Second Republic, cautioning against harmful labels.
Obun stressed that the current tensions among political actors should not be mistaken for sabotage or internal conflict.
“What I see is anxiety, enthusiasm masquerading as struggle or conflict,” he explained, emphasising that healthy debate and disagreement were essential to any functional democracy.
According to him, political dynamics naturally evolve over time, and leaders must play calming roles, especially during periods of heightened tension.
He recalled how former Gov. Liyel Imoke was commended for transitioning from a “street mentality” to one of peacebuilding, reducing violence and division in the state.
Obun, a legal practitioner, also took the opportunity to educate the public on the constitutional responsibilities of parliamentarians, stressing that their role was not to physically construct roads or erect billboards.
“Parliamentarians are meant to influence and facilitate development by securing budgetary allocations and ensuring their release,” he said.
He highlighted poor budgetary implementation across many sectors, where actual releases often fell below 20 per cent, and urged lawmakers to focus on shaping effective policies and securing adequate funding.
Obun, therefore, called for unity and open dialogue.
“If you do not have arguments about methods of doing things, then that is no longer democracy. Democracy thrives on plurality, not just disagreements.
“We must return to the table, not the battlefield.”
He called for unity, understanding, and clarity of purpose, especially as Nigeria navigates complex political and economic challenges. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Abiemwense Moru
Published By
Has also recently published
PoliticsJune 19, 2025Senate will monitor sector by sector implementation of Rivers 2025 budget -Bamidele
PoliticsJune 19, 2025Ex-lawmaker urges political maturity, unity in Cross River
EducationJune 19, 2025Stakeholders brainstorm on effective promotion of inclusive, safe education
MetroJune 19, 2025Gov. Otu committed to restoring Cross River’s lost glory – Commissioner
