By Our Reporter
The Cross River State Consultative Forum, CRSCF, has criticised what it described as the premature presidential ambition of former Senator Sandy Onor, warning that the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, risks weakening its national credibility by promoting what it termed “proxy ambitions.”
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Barr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, and Secretary, Dr Julius Ochim Okputu, on Tuesday, the forum argued that presidential contests should be built on independent political structures, proven electoral strength and national acceptability.
According to the group, Onor’s reported aspiration appears closely tied to the political influence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, rather than any demonstrated nationwide political movement.
The forum described Wike as a dominant political actor whose recent endorsement of President Bola Tinubu, while retaining influence within the PDP, underscored what it called “transactional politics.”
It further alleged that the project was intended to preserve Wike’s influence within the opposition and position Cross River for future political bargaining.
The group maintained that the former senator’s defeat in the 2023 governorship election, including losses in his immediate political base, raised serious questions about the viability of a presidential aspiration.
It urged Nigerians to prioritise leadership founded on electoral legitimacy, institutional credibility and national appeal rather than political sponsorship.
The forum added that democratic leadership should emerge through transparent political competition and authentic grassroots support.