By Abasi Ita
The Chairman of the Cross River State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Venatius Ikem, has called on former members of the party who left due to political disagreements and internal differences to return and join efforts to rebuild the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to Ikem, “the current situation in the state requires experienced and tested politicians who genuinely have the interest of Cross River State and its people at heart to put aside personal grievances and unite for a common purpose.”
Speaking in Calabar on Friday during the inauguration of State Working Committee members to fill existing vacancies, Ikem contended that the prevailing scenarios across all sectors in the state under Governor Bassey Otu has made it imperative for opposition forces and committed stakeholders to work together to rescue the state from “glaring stagnancy and a rudderless administration.”
“Cross River cannot continue on a path of poor governance orchestrated by a cabal, lack of direction and unfulfilled promises. Our state deserves purposeful leadership capable of driving development, attracting investors to optimise our huge potentials, especially in the agro economy, and restoring public confidence,” he said.
Ikem further alleged that despite increased statutory allocations and improved internally generated revenue, there has been little reflection in infrastructure development and the welfare of the people.
“The increased statutory allocations and triple internal revenue indices have not translated into visible infrastructure and improved welfare for our people, especially retirees who are still owed gratuities,” he stated.
The PDP chairman maintained that many former members who left the party remained respected political figures with strong grassroots appeal and valuable experience that could help reposition the party and strengthen democratic opposition in the state.
“Those who left the party remain valuable political assets with the experience and grassroots connection needed to help reposition the PDP and strengthen democratic accountability in Cross River State,” he added.
Ikem urged aggrieved stakeholders to sheathe their swords and embrace reconciliation in the interest of the state, stressing that unity within the opposition would provide a stronger platform to challenge the ruling administration and offer Cross Riverians a credible alternative.
He also tasked the new executive members to consult widely at the grassroots level to strengthen the party through inclusiveness and effective mobilisation.
“You must return to the grassroots, consult widely and ensure that the party grows through inclusiveness, reconciliation and aggressive mobilisation,” he charged the new officials.
Earlier, the State Secretary of the PDP, Chief Joe Obi Bisong, explained that the vacancies arose following the resignation and defection of some former officers of the party.
Responding after the swearing in conducted by a notary public, Barrister Stephen Asuquo, the new State Auditor, David Adie Odey, who spoke on behalf of the inaugurated officials, pledged their commitment and dedication to reposition the party.
“We are committed to working tirelessly to rejig and strengthen the PDP for the task ahead,” Odey said.
Others inaugurated included Buturo Adeh James, Chapter Chairman of Ogoja, Bernard Odey, Chapter Chairman of Bekwarra, and Matthias Njok, Vice Chairman North.