The political journey of Boki Local Government Area in Cross River State reflects a history of loyalty, resilience, and strategic relevance in the state’s democratic evolution.
Historically, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State was first led in 1999 by Rev. B.O. Ikobi, followed by Hon. Chief Amb. Soni Obache Abang. Together, the duo played a pivotal role in delivering massive electoral support for former Governor Donald Duke, a development that helped shape the emergence of young political actors from Boki extraction.
Fast forward to the build-up to the 2023 governorship election, Amb. Soni Obache Abang once again demonstrated his political strength when he was appointed Campaign Director General to Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu. In that election, Boki delivered overwhelming votes for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, contributing significantly to his victory.
In recognition of his efforts, Amb. Abang was subsequently appointed Executive Director of Finance at the South-South Development Commission.
A defining moment in the state’s political landscape came during the reconstitution of the APC State Working Committee. Governor Bassey Otu, in consultation with party stakeholders, elevated Rt. Hon. Chris Soni Etta to the position of APC State Chairman—an emergence widely described as a remarkable political comeback.
Drawing parallels with the biblical story of David, who rose from shepherding to kingship, Etta’s journey reflects a narrative of resilience and divine timing. After serving as Member representing Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency until 2011, he stepped away from the political spotlight, focusing on personal development and humanitarian contributions. His re-emergence has since been seen by many as both strategic and symbolic.
His emergence reportedly sparked widespread excitement among party faithful, with many describing it as a turning point for political realignment in the state.
Despite its vast human and natural resources, Boki remains one of the least developed local government areas in the Central Senatorial District. From the mountainous communities of Beebo-Bumaji to the forest zones of Abo, the fertile lands of Boje, and the plains of Osokom/Irruan, socio-economic challenges continue to affect the people.
To address these longstanding issues, there is a growing call for unity among Boki political leaders and stakeholders across party lines. Prominent figures—including Amb. Soni Obache Abang, Rt. Hon. Chris Soni Etta, Dr. Pius Tawo, Senator Mathew Mbu Jnr, Prof. Jake Otu Enyia, Hon. Victor Abang, Hon. Cletus Obun, Hon. Dr. Alex Ebu, and others—are being urged to close ranks and work collectively toward the development of the area.
The call also extends to grassroots stakeholders such as party executives, youth and women groups, student bodies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and professional associations to rally support for Governor Bassey Otu’s re-election bid in 2027.
Observers believe that such unity will not only strengthen electoral outcomes but also strategically position Boki for greater political advantage in the future—particularly with the expectation that the governorship may rotate to the Central Senatorial District by 2031.
As political activities gradually build toward the next election cycle, the emphasis remains clear: unity, strategic collaboration, and sustained support are key to advancing Boki’s development aspirations and securing its place in Cross River State’s political future.
— RT. Hon. Prof. Jake Otu Enyia, SSA Political Affairs to the Governor, writes from Calabar.
