Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed former Cross River State governor, Ben Ayade, to step down from the 2027 Senate race for Cross River North Senatorial District.
Ayade disclosed this in a statement on Monday, revealing that he was recently invited to Abuja for a high-level consultation with the Presidency, where the directive was communicated to him.
According to the former governor, he has decided to comply with the President’s request, despite expressing disappointment over the development.
“I yield to his request even as I pour tears of ill treatment and agony,” Ayade said.
He, however, used the opportunity to highlight his contributions to the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South-South region, noting that he was the first APC governor in the region and played a key role in building the party’s structure in Cross River State.
Ayade also recalled his support for Tinubu ahead of the 2023 presidential election, stating that he was among the early advocates for Tinubu’s candidacy and helped promote his campaign slogan.
The former governor further lamented that despite his loyalty and efforts, he has not been considered for any federal appointment in over three years.
He appealed to the President to reconsider the directive, arguing that his constituency has only had eight years of senatorial representation, compared to his main opponent who has spent about 20 years in the National Assembly.
Ayade added that granting his opponent another term would amount to an extended dominance, which he believes is unfair to his people.
Despite stepping down, he reiterated his continued support for Tinubu and pledged to contribute to the President’s expected 2027 re-election bid.