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Distances itself from plans to work with ADC
From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
Ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial elections in Cross River State, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has embarked on strategic regrouping.
The regrouping, which took place in Calabar, featured a high-level interactive session with stakeholders from the Southern Senatorial District.
It focused on rebuilding internal cohesion, dispelling merger rumours, and reaffirming the party’s grassroots strength.
Prominent political figures, including former public office holders, youth and women representatives, grassroots mobilisers, and party loyalists from across the southern zone, attended the parley.
The meeting follows rising speculation in political circles in the state about a potential coalition between the PDP and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
State PDP Chairman Hon. Venatius Ikem described the claims as baseless and calculated to distract loyal members.
“The rumour is baseless and calculated to distract loyal members. We remain a resilient, independent institution with deep roots in the state.
“Let it be clear that the PDP in Cross River State is not in talks with ADC or any other party on any merger or coalition.
“Our focus is on restoring trust and unity among members as we prepare to retake the reins of leadership through democratic means,” he said.
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Former Deputy Governor of the state, Efiok Cobham, called on members to put aside personal grievances.
He assured stakeholders that all lingering internal disputes would be resolved, saying the Southern Senatorial District remains committed to the PDP and sought their active engagement ahead of the 2027 polls.
Ntufam Ekpo Okon, a stakeholder in the Southern Senatorial District, stressed that the party’s core challenges stem from the national leadership rather than the grassroots and urged members to stay focused.
Arthur Jarvis Archibong, a former gubernatorial aspirant in the party, urged stakeholders not to be swayed by the allure of the ruling party, as the grass is not greener on the other side.
Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Zana Akpagu, reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP, describing his time with the party as peaceful and rewarding.
“PDP has been my political home, and I’ve benefited immensely from it. My experience with the APC was disappointing. Now is the time to unite and make this party functional again,” he said.
A major resolution adopted at the meeting was the commitment to take the message of peace, unity, and renewed political engagement back to the grassroots.
The PDP dominated Cross River politics for over two decades, winning six gubernatorial elections and a host of other elective positions before capitulating to the APC in the 2023 gubernatorial elections.
