The Senator representing Cross River North, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has refuted allegations that he used his influence to secure public contracts for relatives.
Jarigbe, who was responding to reports linking a company associated with one of his family members to constituency project contracts, described the claims as politically motivated and misleading.
The lawmaker emphasized that he holds no directorship position in the company in question and insisted attention should instead be placed on whether the projects in question were properly delivered.
He questioned why critics appeared more interested in the ownership structure of a company that completed projects rather than scrutinizing numerous projects approved in the 2023 budget for Obudu, Bekwarra, and Obanliku Federal Constituency that remain largely unimplemented.
The senator maintained that his relatives, like all Nigerians, have the constitutional right to participate in public procurement processes, stressing that the real issue should be the successful execution of projects awarded.
He further accused the publication of failing to uphold the journalistic principles of fairness and balance, alleging that those promoting the claims were attempting to deflect attention from their own shortcomings.
According to him, journalists should remain professional and avoid being used to advance politically driven narratives lacking factual basis.
Jarigbe reaffirmed his dedication to improving the welfare of residents across Cross River North, stating that delivering tangible benefits to constituents remains his priority.
Among projects credited to his facilitation in 2025 is a rural water scheme serving 22 communities across the district’s five local government areas.
Other initiatives reportedly completed include the distribution of 130 motorcycles in Obudu Local Government Area, provision of 41 fully equipped desktop computer sets to institutions, emergency rice distribution across the senatorial district, and installation of solar-powered streetlights in Nkum Ekajuk and surrounding communities.
