The Office of Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has publicly dissociated itself from the activities and statements of activist and former student leader Emaluji Michael Sunday, following what the Senator’s media office described as growing concerns over perceived links between the two.
In a press release signed by John Agom Agom, Special Assistant on Media to Senator Jarigbe, the Senator’s office stated that Emaluji Michael was neither a staff member, agent, representative, nor affiliate of the lawmaker.
The statement explained that certain actions and public comments allegedly made by Emaluji had created impressions that could wrongly be associated with the Senator or his office.
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According to the release, the public should hold Emaluji solely responsible for any representations, promises, or obligations arising from his personal conduct.
The Senator’s office further stressed that Senator Jarigbe had not authorised Emaluji to make statements or commitments on behalf of the Senator either online, during public engagements, or in private dealings.
The release also advised individuals and groups to avoid associating the Senator with matters involving Emaluji and encouraged anyone who felt affected by his actions to seek lawful redress directly from him.
However, in a detailed rejoinder issued shortly after the release, Emaluji Michael Sunday, popularly known as OCHOCHI 001, denied ever presenting himself as an official representative or spokesperson of Senator Jarigbe.
Emaluji maintained that all his activities, advocacy, and public engagements were carried out strictly in his personal capacity as a political stakeholder, activist, and concerned citizen interested in the development of Cross River State.
He further stated that he had never used the Senator’s name or office to defraud, scam, or mislead anyone.
According to Emaluji, the controversy surrounding the press statement may have stemmed from a recent petition he reportedly submitted over the alleged diversion of more than 200 mini buses and 150 tricycles allegedly meant for the entire people of Cross River State.
He claimed the vehicles were allegedly distributed exclusively within Cross River South Senatorial District by Senator Bassey Asuquo, an allegation which has yet to receive official confirmation from the parties mentioned.
Emaluji argued that the petition was written purely in his private capacity as a citizen exercising his constitutional right to demand accountability, fairness, and justice.
The former Senate President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) also defended his long history of activism and public advocacy, saying he had consistently spoken against perceived injustice regardless of political or regional affiliations.
Despite the disagreement, Emaluji maintained a conciliatory tone towards Senator Jarigbe, stating that he still held the Senator in high regard and appreciated the support and opportunities he had received from him over time.
He added that he had no intention of bringing the Senator’s name or office into disrepute and urged members of the public and political supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
Political observers who spoke with newsmen noted that the exchange reflects the growing sensitivity around political representation, public perception, and activism within Nigeria’s political space, particularly as public figures increasingly navigate the influence of supporters and independent advocates on social media and in civic engagements.
Analysts also believe the development highlights broader conversations around accountability, political association, and the rights of citizens to engage in advocacy without being officially tied to elected officials.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no indication of any legal action between the parties involved, while supporters on both sides continue to call for calm and constructive engagement.
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here: https://akahinews.org/Joseph/
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