Ayade is providing safe haven for criminals - APC

Governor Ben Ayade

All Progressives Congress in Cross River State has decried the surging criminal activities in the state stating that the Sen. Ben Ayade's mis-governance has opened wide, a window of opportunity for  criminal gangs to operate.

It would be recalled that cult related killings and kidnappings among others have been on the rise in recent times in parts of the state, a situation that has often halted social and economic activities.

A statement by the factional State Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mr. Bassey Ita quoted the factional state party Chairman, Dr. Matthew Achigbe as remarking shortly after a meeting of the party in Calabar that the mis-governance of Sen. Ayade has been the bane of the state.

''In times past , Cross River was a preferred destination for those who wanted a safe haven and secured place to holiday. Calabar was fondly known as a place to come and live and be at rest. We took pride in our enviable reputation as a state with the lowest crime rate in Nigeria before the coming of Ayade.

 Now it is doubtfully so. While other states have stepped up their fight against criminals, Ayade is providing a safe haven for them, hence kidnapping and armed robbery have become rampant and unchallenged," the statement insisted.

According to the party chieftain, the collapse of the tourism industry which the state has comparative advantage is unfortunately, very visible.

"All our iconic tourist sites like the ranch, Bebi airstrip, cable car, Marina resort,Tinapa, Kwa falls, etc have been grounded, and the huge investment of several years left to waste.

Our state as a hub for conservation in Nigeria, an attraction to both national and international visitors is under serious threat. Our reputation as a clean and green state is declining fast," the statement further quoted Dr. Achigbe as describing of the state currently under Ayade's watch.

The APC however remarked that Cross River "needs urgent salvation from the Ayade's misadventure".

The party had earlier accused the governor of appointing some known cult leaders into very sensitive positions in his cabinet.