THE POWER LIST: Top 20 Politicians Steering the Future of Cross River State in 2026

THE POWER LIST: 20 Politicians Steering the Future of Cross River State in 2026

As political activities ahead of the general elections gather pace, Cross River State has become a hotbed of strategic consultations, coalition building, and political realignments. Across the three senatorial districts, influential politicians are strengthening their structures and positioning themselves for what is expected to be another defining election cycle.

From Calabar to Abuja, governors, senators, ministers, federal lawmakers, and party leaders continue to shape the state’s political direction. Whether through public office, legislative influence, grassroots support, or party leadership, these individuals remain at the forefront of political decision-making in Cross River State.

After evaluating current public office, political relevance, electoral influence, grassroots strength, leadership roles, and statewide recognition, Media Today Nigeria presents its editorial ranking of the 20 most influential politicians in Cross River State in 2026.

The 20 Most Influential Politicians in Cross River State (2026)

1. Senator Bassey Edet Otu

Governor of Cross River State and the most influential political figure in the state. His administration and leadership of the APC structure place him at the center of Cross River politics.

2. Senator Prince Bassey Otu

As Governor, his growing political network and control of government institutions continue to define the state’s political landscape.

3. Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe

Senator representing Cross River North and one of the state’s most influential lawmakers in the National Assembly.

4. Senator Eteng Jonah Williams

Senator representing Cross River Central and former Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly.

5. Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr.

Senator representing Cross River South and former Commissioner for Finance.

6. Prof. Sandy Ojang Onor

Former governorship candidate and one of the leading voices of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River.

7. Senator Liyel Imoke

Former Governor of Cross River State and respected political leader whose influence continues to shape political conversations.

8. Senator Ben Ayade

Former Governor of Cross River State and former Senator with significant political influence across the state.

9. Hon. Peter Akpanke

Member of the House of Representatives representing Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwarra Federal Constituency.

10. Hon. Mike Etaba

Member of the House of Representatives representing Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency.

11. Hon. Bassey Akiba

Member of the House of Representatives representing Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency.

12. Hon. Victor Abang

Member of the House of Representatives representing Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency.

13. Hon. Godwin Offiono

Member of the House of Representatives representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency.

14. Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem

Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly and an influential figure in the legislative arm.

15. Dr. Emana Ambrose-Amawhe

Former APC governorship aspirant and respected political stakeholder.

16. Hon. Legor Idagbo

Former member of the House of Representatives and influential political leader.

17. Chief John Owan Enoh

Minister of State for Industry and former Senator, with growing national and state political relevance.

18. Chief Cletus Obun

Veteran politician and respected APC chieftain with decades of political experience.

19. Hon. Alex Egbonna

Former member of the House of Representatives and respected political stakeholder.

20. Chief Mary Ekpere-Eta

Former member of the House of Representatives and one of Cross River’s leading female political figures.

Why These Politicians Matter

These political leaders continue to shape Cross River’s future because they:

• Hold or have held strategic elective and appointive offices.
• Command strong grassroots political structures.
• Influence party leadership and candidate selection.
• Enjoy statewide recognition and political goodwill.
• Play significant roles in governance, legislation, and public policy.

With the 2027 elections approaching, political observers expect new alliances, endorsements, and possible defections to reshape the state’s political landscape. However, these twenty personalities remain among the most influential figures driving political discussions across Cross River State today.

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