Yala LGA Elections: Time for Action, Not Words by Abraham Kadiri

L.GA. Elections: The Crucial Need for CRS Aspirants to Focus on Delivering Tangible Results

As the build-up to the party primaries in Cross River State intensifies, political aspirants are beginning to make their presence felt in various communities through consultations. Soon after party primary or concensus, the list of candidates will be made public by the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSEIC). However, an age-old problem continues to rear its head—aspirants are often distracted by trivial issues, leaving the electorates in the dark about their vision and potential policies and programs. In a state where political apathy can be a concern, it is vital that candidates begin ro sell themselves to the people by showcasing their capacity to deliver meaningful change, rather than getting caught up in the usual theatrics of blame games, zoning arrangements, divisive rhetoric, and distractions.

The “last minute” in politics matters, but content is what really resonates with voters and party stakeholders. Cross Riverians are more politically conscious than ever before. With increasing access to information and growing demand for accountability, the electorates are looking for leaders who can bring solutions, not drama. However, as the political heat rises, many aspirants are still focused on irrelevant matters—zoning pallava, personal attacks, political alignments, or settling scores—rather than the key issues that directly affect the masses. These final moments leading up to the party primaries are crucial in shaping the opinions of party stakeholders, delegates and voters. It is now imperative for aspirants across all political parties to seize the moment and speak directly to the people of Cross River State.

The electorate are no longer impressed by empty promises or public shows of strength without substance. What people care about are the tangible solutions candidates are prepared to offer. For instance, infrastructure development remains a top priority for many citizens. Issues like dilapidated roads, poor transportation networks, youth unemployment and insufficient basic amenities affect daily life. Candidates need to provide clear plans on improving road networks, providing jobs, transportation systems, and infrastructure that will directly impact the livelihoods of Cross Riverians. Similarly, economic revitalization must be addressed. The state’s economy has seen ups and downs, with industries such as tourism and agriculture requiring attention. Aspirants must lay out their plans for revamping these sectors and supporting small businesses, especially in terms of job creation, to combat the growing unemployment crisis.

Moreover, education and healthcare are pressing concerns that cannot be overlooked. The state of public schools and healthcare facilities, especially in the rural areas is often far from satisfactory. Aspirants should be prepared to offer blueprints for improving these essential services, as these are the issues that resonate deeply with voters, especially in rural areas where access to quality education and healthcare is limited. Equally important is the issue of security. The rise in crime and security challenges across Nigeria is no exception in Cross River State. A forward-thinking candidate must address how they plan to collaborate with security agencies and local communities to create a safer environment for all.

Youth and women empowerment is another area where aspirants must focus their efforts. Candidates must speak on their plans to harness the potential of Cross River’s youth population and ensure that women are not left behind in leadership, economic empowerment, and social development. The electorates want to hear specific policies, programs, and actionable steps that will result in real progress, not vague ideas.

One of the major distractions in Nigerian politics, especially at the local and state levels, is personality politics—focusing on the individual, their background, or affiliations rather than their policies. As the primaries draw closer, it is crucial for aspirants to move beyond such tactics. Voters do not want to hear about who a candidate is affiliated with or their personal grievances against other aspirants. Rather, they want to be convinced of how the aspirant will serve the public and implement policies that will positively transform the state.

Accountability and transparency are equally crucial. The history of political promises often includes broken vows and unfulfilled expectations, leaving voters skeptical. It is no longer enough for aspirants to make promises—they must demonstrate how they will be held accountable. Whether it’s through regular town hall meetings, transparent financial management, or clear timelines for project execution, aspirants need to build trust by being specific and practical about how they will deliver on their promises.

A common mistake made by many politicians is assuming that their name, family ties, or political connections will secure them a win. In the current political climate, this approach will not work. Aspirants must engage voters at the grassroots level, especially in localities where people feel increasingly neglected by the government. Listening to the needs and concerns of the electorates and responding with actionable plans is crucial to winning trust and votes.

As we edge closer to the party primaries, aspirants in Cross River State have an opportunity to shift the political narrative. Rather than getting bogged down by trivial issues, they must focus on what truly matters to the people—delivering results. The electorates are not interested in empty rhetoric but in real, actionable solutions that will improve their quality of life. Now is the time for political aspirants to rise to the occasion, present their visions for the future, and earn the trust of the masses through substance, not spectacle.

I wish the next Chairmen best of luck!

Written by Kadiri Abraham