In a bold move, the Cross River South Senatorial District of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has declared that the faction aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike will not determine the party’s next state chairman.
This stance was announced following a caucus meeting held in Calabar on Wednesday, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Asuquo Ekpo, the state’s PDP vice chairman, explained that the meeting was convened to address critical political developments impacting the senatorial district and the state.
In a communique, Ekpo condemned a recent resolution by the Wike-aligned faction in Abuja, which sought to extend the tenure of the current state chairman, Venatius Ikem.
“The leadership under Ikem has been marked by conflict and division,” Ekpo stated, criticizing its divisive tendencies.
The caucus reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent and inclusive state congress scheduled for September 27, 2025.
Ekpo emphasized adherence to the national party template and a special stakeholders’ resolution, stating, “The caucus adopts the existing allocation of state party offices to the southern senatorial district and is determined to present a united front at the congress.”
Reflecting on the PDP’s losses in the 2023 elections in the southern district, the caucus urged local government areas to consult widely and nominate competent representatives for the upcoming congress.
“We are committed to engaging with all local government areas to accommodate or adjust zoning arrangements as needed,” Ekpo added.
The caucus also praised National Woman Leader Mrs. Amina Bryhm for her efforts in stabilizing the PDP in Cross River.
NAN notes that the state’s PDP remains divided between factions loyal to Wike and another previously aligned with former Vice President Alh. Abubakar Atiku, who has since joined the Action Democratic Congress (ADC).
