Miss Josephine Asuquo Effanga, a journalist and social commentator working with the Cross River Broadcasting Corporation. In her post, she raised concerns about the origins of several political aspirants running for elective positions in Calabar South Local Government Area (LGA), accusing some of them of not being true indigenes of Cross River State.
Miss Effanga’s post, which has garnered significant attention and sparked discussions across social media platforms, questions the legitimacy of certain aspirants she believes are originally from neighboring Akwa Ibom State, rather than Calabar South. She specifically cited individuals such as Ette Gresh and Ette Essien, who, according to her, trace their roots to Akwa Ibom, despite their longstanding residency in Cross River State.
“So today, I have just been seeing different fliers for aspirants in Calabar South local government council (councillors and chairmen), and what came to my mind was, are they really from Calabar South? Or are they Efiks from any of the Southern LGAs as the case of Ette Gresh, Ette Essien, and many others?” Miss Effanga wrote in her post.
She further argued that while these aspirants may have been born and raised in Cross River State, this does not make them “originally” from the state. Effanga expressed doubts about whether Cross Riverians would be afforded the same opportunities in the aspirants’ states of origin, suggesting that such prospects would be unlikely.
“Will their own state give our children the opportunity to hold a political office, talk more of an elective position? From my research and experience, no,” she continued.
Miss Effanga’s statements have raised concerns about the inclusivity of Cross River State’s political landscape. She emphasized the need for the “true sons and daughters” of Cross River State to be prioritized for elective positions, urging non-indigenous individuals to refrain from participating in state politics.
“Those from other states can work here, make their money across the state, live peacefully, and enjoy themselves, but need to refrain from our state politics please,” Effanga insisted.
While acknowledging that everyone is entitled to their opinion, Miss Effanga called on those she deems as non-indigenes to focus on their states of origin, allowing Cross Riverians to “enjoy their little cake.”
Her post has stirred controversy, with opinions divided on the issue. Many support her call for the preservation of indigenous representation in Cross River politics, while others argue that long-term residents who have contributed to the state should have the right to participate fully in its political process.
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