The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Cross River, Mr Arthur Archibong, has denied having any criminal record.
Archibong described a recent advertorial allegedly linked to the state government, which accused him of having a criminal record, as a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation.
Archibong stated this while fielding questions from newsmen on Wednesday in Calabar.
The PDP candidate challenged anyone with evidence of any criminal record against him to make it public or present it before a court.
“I dare anyone with criminal records against me to make same public or forever remain silent.
“I am an honest, clean and hardworking citizen of Cross River State in particular and Nigeria at large. I have no criminal records on any matter, anywhere in Nigeria,” he said.
He alleged that the advertorial was an attempt by the state government to counter what he described as his growing popularity and acceptance across the three senatorial districts ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
According to him, the development reflected the state government’s desperation over what he described as widespread dissatisfaction with its performance.
He accused the government of maladministration and alleged that it had failed to provide sufficient infrastructure and human development for the people of the state.
Archibong also alleged that the advertorial exposed what he described as “the odious and evil fabric” of the state government.
The PDP candidate said his campaign had focused on issues rather than personality attacks.
He further alleged that the government was planning to use cult groups to perpetrate violence before, during and after the 2027 elections.
“We are aware that this government is planning unprecedented violence through cultism before, during and after elections, but we are not afraid because God is our shield and buckler,” he said.
He also alleged that the state government and its supporters were responsible for introducing what he described as damaging personality politics.
Archibong warned that any response from his camp would be a consequence of what he called the government’s “wicked salvo”.
“He who sows the wind reaps the whirlwind,” Archibong said.
Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the allegation that the state government planned to use cultists to inflict mayhem across the state before and during the 2027 general elections.
The state Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr Emmanuel Inyang, said the people remained with the APC because of what he described as the party’s provision of good governance in the past three years.
According to him, the allegation was coming from a party that was not prepared to face the people.
“We can only advise them to get ready to face the ultimate defeat that lies ahead of them,” he said.(NAN)
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