The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, has alleged that the planned audit of his privately owned university by tax authorities may be politically motivated.

Jarvis, who is also the founder of Arthur Jarvis University, made the allegation amid reports that officials of the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service were preparing to examine the institution’s Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) tax records.

According to the PDP candidate, the move forms part of a wider pattern of actions allegedly directed at opposition figures in the state.

“It is so insulting. A state government that has not given the university even a pin is now gathering directors to x-ray what taxes we have not paid,” Jarvis said.

He linked the proposed tax audit to the recent marking of the Water Board Estate residence of his running mate, Alphonsus Eba, for demolition, describing both developments as part of what he termed a “crush of the opposition.”

Jarvis further suggested that he could become the next target after his running mate.

“I’m next when they finish with Eba,” he said, warning against escalating the situation and advising the government not to “start what may get messier.”

Jarvis noted that Arthur Jarvis University, which he described as the first private university in Cross River State, employs more than 500 people and has awarded scholarships to over 300 students.

He said the institution had received no support from the state government despite its contributions to education and employment.

The PDP governorship candidate maintained that the university had fully complied with its tax obligations, insisting that its PAYE and other tax records were up to date.

He described the planned audit as “funny” and “insulting,” alleging that the development was connected to the ongoing dispute over the Water Board Estate property.

Responding to the allegations, the Cross River State Commissioner for Information, Erasmus Ekpang dismissed claims of political persecution, insisting that tax compliance remains a statutory obligation for all individuals and organisations irrespective of political affiliation.

Ekpang said routine government responsibilities should not be politicised, stressing that beneficiaries of public services are expected to fulfill their civic obligations.

“You cannot be benefitting from a system and come out to say you will not do what is expected of you,” Ekpang said.