…Former UNICAL Vice-Chancellor’s Track Record, Capacity and Development-Oriented Vision Position Him as the Leading Contender for Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku (OBO) Federal Constituency
By Our Reporter
As the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually takes shape, stakeholders across Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku Federal Constituency are increasingly engaging in discussions about the quality of leadership required to advance the collective aspirations of the people. Among the notable personalities being mentioned in the emerging contest are Prof. Akpagu Zana Itiunbe, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar; HRH Kjay JD Agba; and the incumbent member representing the constituency, Hon. Peter Akpanke.
While all three individuals have their respective strengths and supporters, many political observers and community leaders maintain that Prof. Zana Akpagu possesses the most compelling credentials to provide effective, visionary and transformative representation for the OBO Federal Constituency.
Prof. Akpagu’s profile is distinguished by decades of proven service in academia, public administration and leadership. He served as the 10th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar and was the institution’s first alumnus to attain that prestigious position. Before becoming Vice-Chancellor, he served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Dean of Faculty, Commissioner for Education in Cross River State, and Special Adviser to the Governor on Intergovernmental Affairs and Special Duties. These roles exposed him to governance, policy formulation, human resource management and strategic development on a scale rarely matched by contemporary politicians.
Supporters of Prof. Akpagu argue that OBO Federal Constituency requires more than routine representation; it requires a leader with the intellectual depth, administrative competence and national connections necessary to attract meaningful development. During his tenure as Vice-Chancellor, he was credited with institutional reforms, infrastructural expansion, staff development and the promotion of academic excellence. His leadership experience in managing one of Nigeria’s leading universities is frequently cited as evidence of his ability to handle complex challenges and deliver measurable results.
Unlike many career politicians whose influence is largely confined to partisan structures, Prof. Akpagu has built a reputation that transcends political affiliations. His career has been defined by scholarship, mentorship, public service and community development. Across Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku, many constituents view him as a bridge-builder capable of uniting diverse interests in pursuit of common goals.
His supporters contend that his extensive network within government, academia and the private sector would be invaluable in attracting federal projects, educational opportunities, youth empowerment programmes and strategic investments to the constituency.
Another factor working strongly in Prof. Akpagu’s favour is his understanding of human capital development. Having spent decades mentoring young people and shaping educational policy, he appreciates the importance of investing in education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and job creation. At a time when many young people in OBO are seeking opportunities for economic advancement, his experience is considered particularly relevant to addressing contemporary challenges facing the constituency.
Furthermore, many residents believe that the next representative of OBO Federal Constituency must possess the ability to engage effectively with national institutions, articulate the needs of the people and influence policy outcomes at the federal level. Prof. Akpagu’s background as a renowned academic, administrator and former member of the Cross River State Executive Council places him in a unique position to fulfil these expectations. His supporters maintain that he combines experience, credibility and competence in a manner that distinguishes him from other aspirants in the emerging political contest.
As the road to 2027 unfolds, the decision will ultimately rest with the people of Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku Federal Constituency. However, many constituents are increasingly persuaded that if leadership capacity, proven performance, integrity, experience and a demonstrable commitment to public service are used as the criteria for assessment, Prof. Zana Itiunbe Akpagu stands out as the candidate best positioned to champion the interests of OBO at the National Assembly.
For many supporters, the choice is clear: OBO deserves a representative whose record speaks louder than promises; a leader whose achievements are visible, whose experience is unquestionable and whose vision is capable of unlocking a new era of progress, prosperity and inclusive development for the people. In Prof. Zana Itiunbe Akpagu, they believe OBO has found that leader.
