Over the weekend, Hon. Peter A. Akpanke emerged victorious in the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primary election for the Bekwarra/Obudu/Obanliku Federal Constituency in Cross River State after securing an overwhelming majority of votes cast across the three local government areas.

The primary election, monitored by party officials and stakeholders, recorded a total of 18,921 registered APC members and delegates across Bekwarra, Obudu and Obanliku Local Government Areas.

Official results collation which was made available to journalists showed that 16,564 valid votes were cast during the exercise, with no void votes recorded.

According to the results, Hon. Akpanke polled a total of 14,252 votes to defeat five other aspirants, with
Hon. Theresa Akwaji Ushie scoring 101 votes;
Hon. Martin Orim with 1,572 votes;
Anthonia A. Ally with 104 votes;
Dr. Vincent A. Ushie with 270 votes and
Dr. Godwin A. Agbor with 265 votes.

A breakdown of the constituency wide results showed that Akpanke secured 4,749 votes in Obanliku Local Government Area, 4,886 votes in Obudu Local Government Area, and 4,617 votes in Bekwarra Local Government Area, consolidating respectively.

Following the conclusion of the collation process, APC electoral officials formally declared Hon. Peter A. Akpanke winner of the party’s House of Representatives primary election for the Bekwarra/Obudu/Obanliku Federal Constituency.

The primary election was described by stakeholders, observers and party officials as peaceful, orderly transparent and credible, noting that the outcome reflected the will of party delegates and members across the constituency.

The primary election was conducted under the supervision of APC electoral officials who demonstrated true professionalism, with the official collation documents signed and dated May 16, 2026.

By Daniel Mtindiga, Jalingo

Mr. Hamidu Bakoji has leveled serious allegations against the likely consensus candidate for the Ardo-Kola, Karim-Lamido, and Lau Federal Constituency, accusing incumbent lawmaker Honorable Mohammad Audu Lauya of exploiting religious and tribal sentiments to manipulate State and party leadership despite alleged incompetence and poor human relations.

Bakoji claims Lauya lacked a solid structure before becoming a Member of the House of Representatives and failed to build one during his three-year stay in the NASS. He warns that re-nominating Lauya would be a mistake, potentially costing the APC the seat. He appointed out that some people close to the leadership are more comfortable with him as a light-weight politician to put off heavyweight like Sani.

The controversy deepens with Bakoji urging the governor to watch and analyze closely the voting patterns come 2027 general elections and observe the tribal and religious voting pattern, predicting the Wurkum-Muslim community may reject the governorship candidate if a Muslim candidate is on the ballot.

“This isn’t democracy,” Bakoji declared, criticizing the imposition of unpopular candidates. Further intrigue surrounds the alleged sidelining of former Acting Governor, Senator Sani Abubakar Danladi, rumored to be eyeing a Senate seat for Taraba North.

Bakoji claims the state and party leadership are using Lauya to block Danladi, a Wurkum Muslim, who is growing desperate. The situation is adding layers of religious and tribal tension to the power struggle.

As tensions rise, observers question whether internal party machinations will backfire, handing victory to opposition forces in the upcoming elections.

The Potters House International Network has conferred its prestigious Outstanding Politician of the Year Award on Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu, Member Representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to governance, community development, and service to humanity.

The award ceremony, themed “Open Reward”, was held in Bali, Taraba State, and drew a distinguished audience of political leaders, clergy, traditional rulers, and citizens. The event served not only as a celebration of Hon. Yakubu’s achievements but also as a broader call for integrity and visionary leadership in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Hon. Yakubu has earned a reputation as a dedicated representative who consistently champions the welfare of his constituents. His tenure in the National Assembly has been marked by advocacy for rural development, infrastructural expansion, and empowerment initiatives aimed at uplifting communities across Bali and Gassol. From road construction projects to youth empowerment schemes, his interventions have left a visible impact on the constituency.

In presenting the award, organizers emphasized that Hon. Yakubu’s recognition is more than a personal accolade. It is a collective endorsement of values that Nigeria urgently needs: accountability, transparency, and service-driven leadership. The Potters House Network, known for molding destinies and celebrating excellence, described the honor as a beacon of hope for Taraba State and a reminder that true leadership is measured by tangible results, not rhetoric.

Community leaders at the event praised Hon. Yakubu’s accessibility and responsiveness to the needs of his people. Traditional rulers highlighted his respect for cultural institutions, while youth representatives lauded his commitment to education and job creation. Religious leaders also commended his ability to balance political responsibilities with moral values, describing him as a politician who embodies service to humanity.

The recognition of Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu as Outstanding Politician of the Year positions him as a model of leadership not only in Taraba State but across Nigeria. His award underscores the growing demand for leaders who prioritize the people’s welfare and inspire confidence in democratic governance. The Potters House Network Awards have once again spotlighted individuals whose contributions transcend politics, reminding Nigerians that leadership rooted in integrity and service remains the cornerstone of societal progress.