An Open Letter From OBO Movement To High Chief Higgins Peter.Higgins Peter
First and foremost, it is essential to clarify the position of the OBO Movement. It is a matter of common knowledge that this movement was established to be the voice of our Federal Constituency, specifically regarding the zoning of the Senatorial seat. Consequently, we find it imperative to address the recent outbursts against Senator (Prof.) Benedict Ayade. We remain committed to this principle and will firmly defend any leader from our constituency against similar attacks aimed at discrediting them.
It is pertinent that we write to you at this critical moment regarding the recent controversies circulating on social media. We are specifically addressing certain voice recordings and statements attributed to your name. It has become a matter of deep concern to us that you have not yet come out to debunk or disassociate yourself from these speculations, which suggest a personal vendetta against the personality of Senator (Prof.) Ben Ayade and our federal constituency.
As a highly respected figure from our senatorial district and a High Chief, we recognize the dignity your office carries. We believe that “Chiefs do not defecate in public,” yet the recent outbursts attributed to you are truly appalling.
We find it difficult to believe that these statements originated from you. It was less than three weeks ago that we had a conversation where you advised us on our agitations for the return of the Senate seat to our Federal Constituency. In that conversation, you stated:
“Not just OBO, but my friend Senator (Prof.) Ben Ayade is the one man to whom I owe my support. He brought me on board, and as a state, we owe him a lot.”
Furthermore, you will recall that before the unveiling of the Obudu, Bekwarra, Obanliku (OBO) Movement, we called upon you personally for advice. On August 26, 2025, while receiving our delegation, you stated on the record that OBO would be supported. You further emphasized that whether Senator Ayade wishes to run or not, the people need him; as such, he deserves the right of first refusal come 2027.
In your own words:
“Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu is a respecter of zoning and a listening Governor. He will definitely reciprocate the love that Cross River North once showed him—and specifically the support that Prof. Ben Ayade once provided.”
There is even video evidence where you spoke clearly on camera with media expert Beatrice Akpala, stating: “Ayade na him bring me come Cross River State politics.” In all your previous interfaces and engagements, you have never spoken disparagingly about the man who brought you into the political limelight.
Therefore, we wish to believe that these recent speculations are baseless, especially since you have not released any video or recording to officially confirm a stance against the former Governor.
We urge you to speak out. We hold you in high esteem as an astute leader of our district. Clearing the air will dispel these social media rumors that seek to damage your reputation and image. We believe this may be a calculated attack designed to degrade the trust between you and the current Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu. Such narratives suggest that if you could turn against the man who gave you a political voice, you might do the same to a sitting Governor who met you through Prof. Ayade’s recommendation.
High Chief, it is sacrosanct that you take cognizance of this situation. Please clear the air to protect your public trust and discredit this direct attack on your person.
Signed,
OBO MOVEMENT.
