C’River 2027: PFN South-South VP, Former Gov. Make APC campaign Advisory Council
Archbishop Emmah Gospel Isong, National Vice President (South-South) of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), has been appointed alongside former Gov. Ben Ayade to the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign advisory council in Cross River ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the list released by tue state chapter of the APC on Thursday, also has Senator Florence Ita-Giwa as member.
Mr Chris Eta, APC chairman in Cross River, said Isong’s inclusion in the council highlights the party’s engagement with influential religious leaders as it seeks to consolidate its political structure and strengthen mobilisation across the state’s three senatorial districts.
The archbishop is a prominent figure in the PFN, one of Nigeria’s major Christian organisations, where he has served in national leadership and publicity roles, including as National Publicity Secretary and spokesperson before assuming his current position in PFN.
He is also President of the Semakemek Support Organization and Chief Executive Officer of Remedy for Victims of Religious Persecution and Discrimination.
Known for his involvement in religious and public affairs, Isong was among the prominent prophetic voices who supported the emergence of Gov. Bassey Otu in the 2023 governorship election.
Other members of the APC Campaign Advisory Council include a former minister of Finance, Anthony Ani, Nelly Ewa, SAN, and other eminent personalities in the state.
Political observers say the inclusion of the PFN leader and other political heavyweights could help broaden the party’s reach, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and boost its preparations for the 2027 elections.
Reacting to his appointment, Isong expressed gratitude to Otu and the party leadership for what he described as an inclusive approach that transcended ethnic and political affiliations.
He commended the governor and his team for “recognising Jesus Christ as the Governor of Cross River State”.
The cleric said he did not lobby for the appointment, describing it as a continuation of his service across successive administrations.
“I did not bargain for the position; it is what I have been doing in different administrations,” he said.
Isong urged other political parties to emulate Otu’s approach and shun what he described as “politics of bitterness, thuggery and nepotism”.
He called for greater inclusiveness and constructive political engagement to promote unity and development in Cross River.
