May 19, 2026
On Sunday, May 17, 2026, Sen. Professor Stephen Odey, Esq., Commissioner for Education, Cross River State, received Sen Jarigbe Agom at his Okuku residence on a reconciliatory visit. In a remarkable demonstration of unity, Senator Odey later paid a return visit, where further engagements with Senator Jarigbe and other aspirants led to a consensus, as all other aspirants stepped down in support of Senator Jarigbe Agom.
Following the meeting, alongside Ntufam Chief Dr. Peter Ojie, both leaders addressed party supporters, reaffirming their reconciliation and commitment to the unity, growth, and progress of the APC.
While this reconciliation has been widely celebrated across the state and beyond, it is unfortunate that some individuals who thrive on division have chosen to deliberately misinterpret and distort Senator Odey’s harmless remarks. For the record, part of his speech where he said “some will have sleepless night…” was not directed at the former Governor, Sen. Professor Ben Ayade, but rather at mischief-makers and crisis merchants.
Professor Odey remains a man of peace, forgiveness, and maturity, values he continues to demonstrate consistently. Those attempting to create unnecessary controversy are clearly uncomfortable because the crisis they once exploited has now come to an end.
Let it be clearly stated: Senator Odey holds the former Governor in high regard and remains loyal to the current Governor, Apostle Sen. (Dr.) Prince Bassey Otu. The antics of mischief-makers and crisis merchants will not stand, as Professor Odey remains focused, wise, and committed to the greater good.
The public is therefore advised to disregard the misleading narratives being circulated by individuals such as Simon Utsu and others peddling falsehoods. Their claims are baseless, malicious, and do not reflect the true situation.
Simon Utsu, in particular, is widely known for his consistent criticism of former Governor Ben Ayade, who is his own kinsman. Utsu has repeatedly been sponsored to write against Senator Professor Stephen Odey. His pattern is well known — he is paid to attack political leaders through fabricated and distorted narratives. We are fully aware of both him and those sponsoring these campaigns of misinformation. Peace has prevailed—and those who depend on conflict will continue to lose relevance.