The lawmaker representing Cross River State North, Senator Agom Jarigbe, has been exonerated by the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG) of a breach of procurement requirements.
Mr Jarigbe was accused of using a family company to execute a procurement contract for the supply of motorcycles, computing equipment, rice supplies, and solar-powered streetlights, which is against the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB).
But the group’s president, Ogakwu Dominic, in a statement on Tuesday, dismissed the allegations, adding that the lawmaker did not breach any procurement law.
Mr Dominic claimed that the allegations were sponsored by people who are envious of towering political influence in Cross River State.
“While critics raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and adherence to public procurement rules, the lawmaker has consistently prioritised the welfare of his constituents.
“The independent assessment by CSGGG concluded that Senator Jarigbe’s interventions have produced measurable and widespread benefits across Ogoja, Yala, Bekwarra, Obudu, and Obanliku Local Government Areas.
“In education, he has facilitated the construction, renovation, and furnishing of classrooms, staff rooms, and modern toilets in numerous primary and secondary schools, significantly improving learning environments for thousands of students.”
The group said infrastructure projects under his watch have enhanced connectivity and trade, with the completion and rehabilitation of major roads linking rural and semi-urban communities and ongoing works on strategic routes such as Ibil–Abakpa, Busangfong, and Yahe–Ukelle.
They said bridges at Ukpagada in Ogoja and Amukwong in Obudu have further eased movement, while over 180 solar-powered and motorised boreholes have been installed to provide safe drinking water to communities across the district.
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“Electrification and streetlight initiatives have transformed public spaces and improved security, with 500KVA transformers energising multiple wards and solar-powered streetlights illuminating towns, markets, and major roads throughout Cross River North.
“Healthcare interventions, including medical outreach programmes, distribution of equipment to ten primary healthcare centres, and the enrollment of 1,000 constituents in the JariCare health insurance scheme, have strengthened access to essential health services for vulnerable populations,” the group said.
According to the group, farmers have benefited from tractors, fertilisers, and hand tillers, while youths have gained skills through aquaculture and data management training, enhancing both productivity and employability.
The group urged the public and political actors to base their discourse on verified facts, emphasising that discussions should focus on accountability and development outcomes rather than unsubstantiated claims or political smears.
“Our independent assessment confirms tangible results in the senator’s legislative and constituency work. While oversight is essential to democratic governance, it must be balanced, fair, and evidence-based.”
