The Cross River State Government has placed restrictions on the formation and operation of unauthorized political and support groups.
This move is aimed at safeguarding political stability and ensure continued development in the state.
The development was made public through a statement signed on Tuesday by Clement Asanye, the Special Assistant to the Governor on All Progressive Congress Support Groups Matters.
The statement, raised alarm over the activities of certain unregistered and unauthorized groups masquerading as political support groups within the state.
Describing these groups as threats to peace, stability, and the democratic ethos of Cross River, the statement accused them of engaging in covert operations designed to undermine the administration’s “People First” agenda.
It further alleged that the actions of these groups are divisive and counterproductive to the government’s vision of development, unity, and good governance.
It reads in part “These groups, unauthorized, unregistered, and unknown, have seen fit to engage in covert schemes and clandestine maneuvers… sowing seeds of discord and strife among our people.
“The state government made it clear that such groups do not have the backing of the government, the ruling party, or the people of Cross River State. As a result, the government has reiterated that any act perceived as sabotage, anti-government, anti-party, or anti-people will attract the “severest consequences in line with the laws of the land.”
According to the release, intelligence reports on the activities and intentions of the said groups have already been submitted to relevant authorities for immediate action.
The state is also intensifying efforts to crack down on these elements and prevent any disruption to its ongoing projects and programs.
Governor Bassey Otu’s administration, through the Office of the Special Assistant on APC Support Groups Matters, called on citizens to be vigilant and avoid being misled by individuals and organizations that do not represent the collective interest of the people.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting well-structured and properly registered support groups that align with its vision of peace, prosperity, and progress.
Legitimate groups were encouraged to stay focused and continue working towards the development of the state in line with democratic principles and the governor’s transformational agenda.
“The future we seek is one of unity and progress,” the statement concluded. “Let us reject division and embrace collective purpose as we build a better Cross River State.”-The statement concluded.
