The political atmosphere in Ogoja, Cross River State, has grown tense following a sudden and sweeping ban on public gatherings imposed by the local council authorities. The move, announced on January 5, 2026, is widely perceived as a strategic maneuver to disrupt the planned defection of the council's former Vice Chairman, Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Official Directive and Stated Reasons
In a Public Service Statement dated January 5, 2026, the Office of the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Ogoja Local Council declared an immediate suspension of all public gatherings and large meetings. The directive, signed by the Chief Press Secretary, Sonnie Okem, mandates that any such event must first receive approval from the Council Chairman.
The council officially justified the ban as a necessary step to maintain public order and ensure safety for all residents. The statement warned that individuals or groups violating the order would face legal prosecution and urged public cooperation to preserve peace and stability.
Political Undercurrents and Timing
However, the timing of the prohibition has ignited significant political controversy. The ban coincides directly with the anticipated public declaration of former Vice Chairman Emmanuel Idi Yakubu into the ADC. Observers believe the council's action is a calculated effort to frustrate this event, which was expected to draw a large crowd due to Yakubu's grassroots support and the public sympathy surrounding his political struggles.
The crisis stems from a protracted leadership feud within the council. Yakubu, who was elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC), had a tenure marred by a bitter rift with the council chairman. Before his resignation, Yakubu leveled serious allegations against the leadership, including marginalization, exclusion from key decisions, verbal abuse, and failure to reimburse personal funds he spent on official duties.
Escalating Crisis and Wider Implications
The conflict intensified amid reported moves to impeach Yakubu, which he attributed to internal APC power struggles and his allegiance to factions opposed to the current state party leadership. Despite intervention attempts by party stakeholders calling for reconciliation, the tensions have persisted, fueling ongoing political uncertainty in Ogoja Local Council.
The ban on gatherings, therefore, is not seen as an isolated security measure but as the latest episode in a deep-seated political battle. It raises questions about the use of administrative power to influence political realignments and stifle opposition movements at the local government level.
