Agba Jalingo’s recent visit to the Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Otu, has sparked a wave of commentary, particularly among the younger generation of political observers. For those who have followed Jalingo’s career, this visit raises important questions about the role of journalists and political activists in holding power to account, and whether personal relationships with political figures can undermine the integrity of their work.
Jalingo’s reputation as a fierce critic of former Governor Ben Ayade remains fresh in the minds of many. His relentless pursuit of truth and accountability during Ayade’s tenure earned him both admiration and enmity. Notably, his criticisms were so impactful that even after Ayade left office, Jalingo continues to face legal battles, particularly a defamation case brought against him by a member of the Ayade family. This ongoing struggle showcases the personal risks Jalingo has taken in his quest to expose wrongdoing and demand better governance.
However, it is worth recalling that before his public falling out with Ayade, Jalingo had once enjoyed a seemingly close relationship with the former governor. The details of their rift remain unclear, but it serves as a reminder that political alliances can be as fleeting as they are strategic. This history has led some to view Jalingo’s current rapport with Governor Otu with skepticism. Will Jalingo’s proximity to the new governor compromise his role as a watchdog, or will he remain steadfast in his commitment to the truth?
Governor Otu’s administration is still in its early stages, but already there are signs that it may not meet the high standards that Jalingo and others have set for good governance. The continuation of the Cargo Airport project, a venture that has yet to move beyond the pages of newspapers, is one example of what critics are calling a potential white elephant. Additionally, the governor’s focus on developing the Southern District while neglecting local governments and aggressively empowering young political supporters from the Efik tribe has raised concerns about regional imbalance and favoritism.
These issues are ripe for scrutiny, and the younger generation of political commentators is right to question whether Jalingo will continue to hold Governor Otu accountable, or whether his relationship with the governor will lead to a dilution of his critical edge. Some pundits argue that Otu may not have earned Jalingo’s friendship based on the latter’s stringent criteria for measuring good governance. If Otu’s administration fails to deliver on its promises, Jalingo’s history suggests that he will not remain silent, no matter how close he is to the corridors of power.
The broader question for Cross River State, however, extends beyond the relationship between Jalingo and Otu. It is about the quality of leadership that the people deserve. The state’s political landscape has long been dominated by the convention of zoning, which often prioritizes power rotation over merit. This practice has allowed even the most ineffective leaders to complete their tenures, as the electorate is pacified by the prospect of having “their turn” in power rather than demanding excellence from their leaders.
To truly recover Cross River State, the people must reject the notion that leadership is a prize to be passed around based on geography or ethnicity. Instead, they must stand firm for quality leadership that transcends these divisions. Agba Jalingo’s role, whether as a friend or a foe to those in power, will be critical in this process. His natural inclination to rebel against derailing authorities, as seen in his past actions, should serve as a beacon for all those who seek to hold their leaders accountable.
In the end, the real test for Jalingo, and indeed for all political commentators, will be whether they can resist the temptations of power and maintain their integrity in the face of changing political tides. For Cross River State to move forward, the people need voices that will challenge the status quo, demand transparency, and prioritize the common good over personal relationships. Whether Jalingo will continue to be one of those voices remains to be seen, but the stakes could not be higher.