In a landslide victory that has reaffirmed the loyalty of the Cross river central senatorial district, Sen. Eteng William, the incumbent senator, has reclaimed a clear validation from the party grassroots. The esteemed senator has been officially declared as the duly elected senatorial candidate for the Cross River Central Senatorial District ahead of the upcoming 2027 general elections.
The state party leadership has also congratulated the flagbearer, describing his resounding win as a profound validation of his extensive philanthropic footprint, accessible leadership, and unyielding dedication to the socio-economic advancement of the central district.
The highly anticipated primary election ended in a highly monitored collation exercise at the Ikom Local Council Hall. It showcased a robust display of internal party democracy. The contest featured an elite lineup of political titans, transforming the primary into an intense battle for the soul of Cross River Central. The incumbent lawmaker, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams locked horns with Hon. Oden Ewa and a formidable female contender, who was the former Director-General of the National Center for Women Development, Barr. Mary Ekpere.
A meticulous, open count of lawful ballots across the 66 electoral wards followed after the APC Primary Election. Then the Returning Officer, Mr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, officially declared Sen. Eteng Jonah Williams, the winner. He polled a staggering 32,426 votes, completely eclipsing Barr. Mary Ekpere, who secured 991 votes, and the incumbent, Hon. Oden Ewa, who finished third with 726 votes
This victory represents the political confidence, which Cross-river central APC members hold in Sen. Williams’ capacity to deliver premium federal representation. Party faithful turned out in their thousands across the six local government areas of the district. This includes Ikom, Boki, Etung, Obubra, Yakurr, and Abi.
The turnout demonstrates that his vision for grassroots empowerment resonates deeply with the electorate. By selecting a trusted lawmaker and a bridge-builder with a flawless public service track record, the APC in Cross River Central has revalidated its most viable asset to safeguard the party’s dominance in the upcoming general elections.
After the official announcement, Sen. Eteng Williams expresses immense gratitude to the national and state leadership of the APC, as well as, everyone who played a part in the smooth organisation of the primaries. Senator Williams also extends a sincere olive branch to his co-competants, Hon. Ewa and Barr. Ekpere, emphasizing that the primary was a brotherly contest where there are no losers, only a victorious party.
Senator Eteng Williams acknowledged that the mandate handed to him is not his alone. He noted that it belongs to the everyday people of Cross River Central from simple farmers to youths, women, and elders. He pledged to use his legislative seat to attract federal infrastructure, boost regional agriculture, and align the district with national development initiatives. Furthermore, he vowed to run an accessible, inclusive campaign focused on community welfare.
.With the conclusion of the primaries, the APC state leadership urges all aspirants and stakeholders to unite behind Sen. Eteng Williams. The party emphasises that while internal competition is healthy, ultimate victory requires a completely unified front. Backed by a consolidated party structure, Sen. Williams’ candidacy positions the APC to sweep the upcoming general elections.
Samuel Agboola is a member of the editorial team of TheScript Newspapers
