The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Cross River State, Arthur-Javis Archibong, has accepted Governor Bassey Otu’s challenge to a public debate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Archibong said he was ready to debate Otu at any time and venue chosen by the governor, provided he appeared in person.
Speaking with journalists in Calabar on Tuesday, the PDP candidate said Cross Riverians deserved to hear directly from those seeking to lead the state rather than through representatives.
“I am willing to honour the challenge to a debate, on one condition: that Governor Bassey Otu will be there in person,” he said.
Archibong described the state Commissioner for Information, Ekpenyong Cobham, as his brother but said he would not engage him in a political exchange because he was not a candidate.
The PDP candidate also criticised the Otu administration over its handling of recent crises, including the landslide incidents and the fire at SPAR Shopping Mall in Calabar.
He questioned the government’s frequent foreign trips and signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), asking for evidence of how many had translated into projects, jobs and economic opportunities for residents.
Archibong also expressed sympathy for victims of the SPAR fire and promised to strengthen emergency response and equip the state fire service if elected.
He further defended Arthur Jarvis University against recent criticisms, saying the institution had continued to contribute to the state through education and employment.
Archibong urged Cross Riverians to focus on issues such as poor sanitation, blocked drainage and inadequate emergency response, stressing the need for responsive and accountable leadership.
“Cross River deserves a governor who will not govern from a distance or by proxy. Our people deserve leadership that shows up, listens, and delivers,” he said.