C’River APC: Surging Toward 2027 as a United Front
By Isaac Aqua
Guest Writer
In a political season often marked by rancour and contestation, the recent ward and local government congresses of the All Progressives Congress in Cross River stand out as a remarkable display of unity, discipline, and strategic foresight.
Across all 18 local government areas, party faithful converged not in conflict but in consensus, navigating internal democracy with decorum, patience, and mutual respect. From Bakassi to Obanlikwu, what unfolded was not merely a procedural exercise but a deliberate affirmation of shared purpose, a recognition that a party’s strength lies in cohesion and collaborative governance.
Chairman of the National Committee overseeing the exercise, Mr Samuel Yarnap, monitored the congresses closely from February 18 to 21. His verdict was clear: the Cross River exercise ranked among the most peaceful and best organised in the country. “Since our arrival and the commencement of the ward congresses,” Yarnap noted, “we have witnessed an exemplary demonstration of internal discipline, transparency, and unity. There has been no rancour, no parallel structures, and no violence. Cross River has conducted the best congress ever.” Real-time updates and video evidence sent to the national leadership reinforced the assessment, highlighting a state party operating efficiently and in sync with both local and national expectations.
The success of the congresses reflects the prevailing spirit of peace cultivated under governor Bassey Otu’s leadership. Yarnap emphasized that the governor’s approach, which emphasizes inclusion, dialogue, and participatory decision-making, has permeated the party’s operations.
The atmosphere of cohesion was evident in the seamless coordination among officials and the cooperative engagement of members, showing that political loyalty aligned with shared values can generate both discipline and enthusiasm.
Governor Otu, who actively monitored the process, described the congresses as smooth and purposeful. “There were no hitches, no conflicts, and no disruptions,” he affirmed. “This is a reflection of our members’ commitment to unity and their readiness to advance collective goals. It is the essence of internal democracy and the foundation for future successes.” Observers noted that his presence lent credibility to the proceedings and reinforced the narrative of calm, purposeful engagement across all tiers of the party.
The state monitoring team, including APC state chairman Ntufam Ekuk Ojong, visited numerous wards across the state.. Their observations confirmed strict adherence to approved guidelines. Decisions on party leadership positions emerged from broad consultations, reflecting a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect.
Local leaders, such as Apostle James Anam, emphasized that the peaceful conduct of the congresses exemplified a leadership philosophy that fosters stability, unity, and progress. Chief Koko Henshaw echoed this sentiment, attributing the hiccup-free process to sustained dialogue and a shared sense of purpose.
Isolated claims that the congress did not take place in Ikom Local Government Area were firmly dismissed by party officials. Attendance registers, the presence of accredited delegates, and documented voting processes confirmed that the exercise occurred in line with approved protocols. Sources described the claim as inconsistent with verifiable facts and detached from the broader consensus observed across the state.
Beyond procedural success, the congresses carry critical implications for the future. With the 2027 general elections approaching, the APC in Cross River has sent a clear message: internal unity and strategic consolidation are essential. The exercise provided a platform to affirm leadership structures, reconcile divergent views, and cultivate a shared vision that transcends individual ambitions. This approach strengthens the party internally and enhances its credibility and appeal to the electorate, presenting an image of cohesion, discipline, and readiness for governance.
The Cross River experience demonstrates that consensus need not undermine competitiveness. Intra-party democracy can coexist with stability, and political ambition, when channeled constructively, strengthens rather than fragments party structures. In a political environment often marked by acrimony, the APC’s choice of dialogue over discord, consultation over confrontation, and unity over division is exemplary.
As the congresses concluded, the message was unmistakable. The APC has forged a united front, setting the tone for future engagements and cultivating a culture that prioritizes collaboration, inclusivity, and foresight. For stakeholders and members, the congresses offered reassurance that the party can manage internal processes professionally and inspiration to sustain momentum, build on gains, and carry forward a narrative of unity into 2027 and beyond.
In the words of the Chief of Staff to Governor Otu, Chief Dr Emmanuel Ironbar, the widespread consensus reflects the unity, cohesion, and harmony instilled in the party by the governor. The APC in Cross River is evolving into a formidable, united team poised to leverage the impressive track record of President Bola Tinubu and governor Otu, laying a strong foundation for strategic consolidation and success in 2027.
Ultimately, the congresses serve as both a practical milestone and a moral statement. The APC in Cross River has surged forward not through individual dominance but through collective effort, showing that a party truly united at its core is capable of transformative action. As the state marches toward 2027, the challenge will be to maintain collaboration, ensure cohesion translates into tangible governance outcomes, and reaffirm consistently that unity is essential for political success.
Cross River APC has scripted a narrative worthy of emulation. It is a story of discipline, deliberation, and dedication, where consensus triumphs over conflict and strategy over spontaneity. Surging toward 2027, the party exemplifies what it means to be a united front, ready not only to contest elections but to consolidate governance, build trust, and inspire confidence among members and the wider populace.
The lesson is clear. In an era of political volatility, unity is not optional, it is indispensable. Cross River APC has shown the way.
