Beyond the Calmness: A Critical Look at Calls for Ben Ayade’s 2027 Political Return

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The recent Facebook post by Pius Kejuo Osang praising former Cross River State Governor Sir Benedict Ayade and describing his so-called “calmness” as a “superpower” ahead of a potential 2027 Senate run has ignited fresh debates across Cross River North.

While Osang’s article celebrates Ayade’s political style, inclusiveness, and alleged impact on youth participation in politics, critics argue that such sentiments overlook the stark realities of Ayade’s eight years in power and raise serious questions about the prospects of his political comeback.

Eight Years of Opportunity — But What Changed?

Ayade’s tenure as Governor of Cross River State from 2015 to 2023 came with immense political goodwill, particularly from Cross River North, which produced a governor for the first time since the state’s creation.

For many indigenes, this was a golden opportunity to address decades-long neglect in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, and industrialisation across the northern region.

However, two years after leaving office, critics say little has changed in the lives of ordinary people in Cross River North. The region still grapples with poor roads, underfunded schools, inadequate healthcare facilities, youth unemployment, and weak industrial growth, raising tough questions about Ayade’s legacy.

“If Ayade could not transform the region as Governor with full executive powers, what will he do differently as a Senator with far less influence?” one political analyst told Akahi News.

The “Food on the Table” Mantra and Its Consequences

Osang’s write-up praises Ayade’s “Food on the Table” mantra as a form of political inclusiveness that took democracy to the grassroots. But many argue that the policy, while populist in tone, failed to create sustainable development or lasting economic opportunities for the people.

Instead of empowering citizens through infrastructure, industrial projects, and agricultural transformation, the policy allegedly fostered a culture of political patronage that left many dependent on temporary government stipends rather than building long-term economic independence.

Eight years on, critics say the region still lacks visible legacies comparable to the opportunities Ayade had as the state’s chief executive.

Calmness or Political Fatigue?

Osang frames Ayade’s current silence as “a tale of calmness and composure” — a political strategy to keep opponents guessing.

However, critics interpret this “calmness” differently. To many, it symbolises political fatigue and a loss of momentum after eight years in office without delivering the transformative changes his administration once promised.

Some political commentators told Akahi News that Ayade’s silence may reflect a lack of new ideas or policy direction, noting that voters in Cross River North are increasingly seeking fresh leadership with innovative solutions rather than recycled political rhetoric.

Time for New Prospects in Cross River North

As 2027 approaches, calls are growing for new political leaders in Cross River North who can move beyond personality politics and focus on policy-driven development.

While Ayade’s supporters tout his experience and national connections, others argue that the region deserves a new prospect — someone untainted by past shortcomings and capable of addressing pressing issues such as:

• Rural infrastructure development
• Youth unemployment and skills acquisition
• Agricultural industrialisation
• Healthcare and education revitalisation

“If eight years as Governor couldn’t change the story, returning as Senator is unlikely to rewrite the script,” one social commentator said, adding that “the people must look beyond nostalgia and embrace new leadership with fresh ideas.”

The Road Ahead

For now, Ayade remains a powerful political figure in Cross River North, but whether his political calmness translates into renewed public trust remains to be seen.

What is clear, however, is that 2027 will test whether voters prefer political continuity or a new generation of leaders with the vision to transform Cross River North beyond its current challenges.

As the debate unfolds, one question dominates public discourse: Is it time to move beyond Ayade and give someone else a chance?

Akahi News will continue to monitor political developments in Cross River North as preparations for 2027 gather momentum.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org