Ntufam Maurice Omin-Iso’s Defection: A Shift in Cross River State’s Political Landscape
Ntufam Maurice Omin-Iso, a prominent figure in Cross River State’s political arena and former chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has recently announced his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move, accompanied by a significant number of his supporters, has sent ripples through the state’s political landscape, prompting speculation and analysis. Omin-Iso, a successful business tycoon and influential figure within the EnangAyie clan of Calabar Municipality Local Government Area, has offered a candid explanation for his decision, citing a combination of factors that led him to abandon the PDP and embrace the APC.
Central to Omin-Iso’s decision is his assessment of the PDP’s current state. He describes the party as a "sinking ship," plagued by internal divisions and a lack of effective leadership. This perception of the PDP’s declining fortunes, coupled with his growing admiration for Governor Bassey Otu’s performance, played a significant role in motivating his switch to the APC. He lauds Governor Otu’s focus on infrastructural development and people-oriented policies, highlighting the tangible improvements he has witnessed in his own community. The governor’s decisive action in paving the road leading to Omin-Iso’s residence served as a powerful demonstration of his commitment to delivering tangible benefits to the people.
Beyond the realm of local politics, Omin-Iso expresses his broader approval of the APC’s performance both at the state and national levels. This wider perspective suggests that his decision was not solely based on local considerations but also reflects a broader assessment of the political landscape. He frames his move as aligning himself with a progressive force that he believes is capable of driving positive change. This narrative underscores his long-standing identification with progressive ideals, further solidifying his rationale for joining the APC.
Omin-Iso vehemently denies speculation that his defection was motivated by fear of persecution from the APC leadership. He emphasizes his history of opposing political forces, portraying his current move as a principled decision based on his assessment of the APC’s performance rather than a reaction to perceived threats. He asserts his commitment to standing by the truth and dismisses any suggestion that he is facing legal challenges or attempting to evade repercussions from the government. This clarification seeks to dispel any doubts about the integrity of his motives and underscore the genuine nature of his support for the APC.
Looking forward, Omin-Iso expresses his optimism about the future and the potential for collaboration with Governor Otu to elevate Cross River State to new heights. He views his move, along with his supporters, as an opportunity to contribute to the state’s progress under the APC’s leadership. This forward-looking perspective signals his commitment to working within the APC framework to advance the interests of the state and its people. He envisions a collaborative approach, leveraging his influence and resources to support Governor Otu’s vision for Cross River State.
In summary, Ntufam Maurice Omin-Iso’s defection from the PDP to the APC represents a significant political development in Cross River State. Driven by a combination of disillusionment with the PDP’s perceived decline and admiration for Governor Otu’s performance, Omin-Iso’s decision reflects a broader shift in the state’s political dynamics. His emphasis on aligning with progressive ideals and contributing to the state’s progress under the APC banner sets the stage for a new chapter in his political journey. The long-term implications of this move, both for Omin-Iso’s own political trajectory and the broader political landscape of Cross River State, remain to be seen. However, his defection, along with his supporters, undoubtedly marks a noteworthy development in the ongoing evolution of the state’s political landscape.
