CRS APC Weakness In Grassroots Structure: An Open Letter To Gov. Otu And APC Stakeholders in Cross River State

An Open Letter to the Governor of Cross River State and Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State

Your Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu,

I write as a concerned citizen, a loyal member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and one who genuinely appreciates your developmental strides across Cross River State. Your commitment to improving infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, and the economy has inspired renewed hope among our people.

However, Your Excellency, I am compelled to draw your attention to the current state of our party structure across the 18 Local Government Areas. Regrettably, the party has increasingly become a subject of ridicule by the opposition due to the weakening of its grassroots structures.

My concerns are as follows:

1. Erosion of Party Structure: In several local government areas, Local Government Chairmen have assumed the responsibilities of APC Chapter Chairmen and Secretaries, who are constitutionally the party’s leaders at that level. This has diminished the authority and relevance of elected party executives.
2. Lack of Engagement: Since the election of Local Government and Ward Executives, there has been little or no meaningful engagement between the State Working Committee and these officers. Consequently, many feel sidelined and disconnected from the party leadership.
3. Poor Welfare: Ward and Chapter Executives reportedly receive stipends of less than ₦1,000 per month. This is highly discouraging, particularly when members of opposition parties enjoy better support. Our grassroots officers are the backbone of the party and deserve improved welfare.
4. Disregard for Party Executives: During the recent party primaries, many aspirants—especially in the Southern Senatorial District—failed to consult or involve Chapter and Ward Executives. Additionally, some serving Senators and House of Representatives members continue to overlook the very structures that contributed to their electoral success.

Your Excellency, it is particularly concerning that many Chapter Chairmen, Secretaries, and Ward Executives still struggle with transportation, often relying on public means to attend party functions. We recall that during your tenure as Senator, you provided buses and vehicles to support these officials in carrying out their duties effectively.

In light of the above, I respectfully appeal to you to revive and strengthen the APC grassroots structure. A strong and enduring party is built from the grassroots upward. Empowering Ward and Chapter Executives, improving their welfare, and restoring their constitutional roles will ensure that the APC remains united, vibrant, and well-positioned for future electoral success.

I make this appeal with utmost respect and in the best interest of our great party and the continued progress of Cross River State.

Yours faithfully,
Concerned Citizen and APC Stakeholder