From Darkness to Light: Four Years After Senator Jarigbe’s Emergence, Cross River North Reflects on Transformative Leadership
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
In a heartfelt Facebook post shared on 15th September 2025, prominent Cross River North commentator, John Akpa, reflected on the significance of Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe’s emergence four years ago, describing it as a moment when “light broke through darkness” for the entire senatorial district.
On 15th September 2021, Senator Jarigbe was officially sworn in as the duly elected Senator representing Cross River North, following months of intense legal battles and political uncertainties. The event marked a defining moment not only in the political history of the region but also in its governance trajectory.
A Legal Battle that Shaped History
Akahi News learnt that the 2020 by-election for the Cross River North Senatorial District was fiercely contested, culminating in a series of litigations that went all the way to the Court of Appeal. After the electoral commission had initially declared another candidate as the winner, Senator Jarigbe pursued his mandate through the courts, securing a decisive legal victory on 30th July 2021 when the appellate court ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue him the certificate of return.
On 15th September 2021, when Senator Jarigbe was finally sworn in, celebrations erupted across the five local government areas of Cross River North — Obudu, Obanliku, Yala, Bekwarra, and Ogoja — as the people welcomed what many saw as the dawn of a new era of accountability and people-focused governance.
Transformational Leadership and Development
According to John Akpa’s post, the Senator’s emergence brought significant changes to Cross River North. He described it as “a turning point that shifted the trajectory of the district from darkness to light.”
Akahi News gathered that since assuming office, Senator Jarigbe has facilitated projects and programmes across multiple sectors:
- Infrastructure: Construction and rehabilitation of critical roads, including the Alifokpa-Yache road and several intra-community links, aimed at boosting trade and connectivity.
- Education: Building and renovation of classroom blocks in primary and secondary schools, provision of learning materials, and scholarship schemes for indigent students within and outside Nigeria.
- Healthcare and Agriculture: Distribution of medical equipment to rural clinics and support for farmers with agro-chemicals to improve yields and food security.
- Youth Empowerment: Skills acquisition programmes, employment facilitation, and small business support initiatives for young people and women across the district.
These interventions, Akpa noted, have gradually changed the socio-economic landscape of Cross River North, improving access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for many rural communities.
A Shift in Governance Culture
One of the most profound changes, according to analysts, has been the shift from what was widely perceived as an era of unaccountable leadership to one where the people’s voices are amplified. Senator Jarigbe has repeatedly emphasised transparency, inclusivity, and the prioritisation of community needs in decision-making.
Political observers believe this transformation has redefined the relationship between elected officials and constituents in the district, with governance becoming more participatory and people-centred.
Looking Toward 2027
As the next election cycle approaches, Akpa’s post serves as both a celebration of progress and a cautionary note. He urged the people of Cross River North to remember the state of roads, healthcare facilities, schools, and agricultural systems before Senator Jarigbe’s emergence and to safeguard the gains made over the past four years.
“We must not allow financial scavengers to alter the plans of God for our people,” he wrote, calling for unity and vigilance as 2027 draws near.
Four years after his swearing-in, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe’s leadership remains a reference point for transformative governance in Cross River North. From infrastructural development to human capital investment, his tenure has brought tangible changes that continue to shape lives across the senatorial district.
As the people look ahead, the legacy of his emergence on 15th September 2021 — from “darkness to light” — will undoubtedly influence political conversations and development priorities in the years to come.
🎓 Attend 2026 JAMB, Post-UTME, WAEC, and NECO GCE Tutorials
Get fully prepared with expert tutors, comprehensive study materials, and personalised academic guidance at Akahi Tutors.
📍 Located at 67, Oduduwa College Road, Off Sabo Junction, Ile-Ife.
📞 Call: 08038644328
for enrollment and accommodation reservation.
Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org