C'River: Vena’s Support Surges As 15 LG Chapter Chairmen Back Second Term Ambition
Judex OKORO
AHEAD of Cross River State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congress 15 chapter chairmen have endorsed the Venatius Ikem–led executive for another four years term.
Meeting under the Forum of PDP Chapter Chairmen, the leaders unanimously endorsed Ikem ahead of the September 27 state congress, while raising alarm over what they described as a fresh plot by “ADC infiltrators” to hijack party structures for selfish interests.
Speaking to journalists in Calabar, the Ogoja Chapter chairman and leader Forum of PDP Chapter Chairmen, Odidi Emmanuel, praised Ikem’s leadership, noting that he had demonstrated political sagacity and resilience in repositioning the PDP despite the challenges of opposition politics.
“The state executive under Barr. Ikem has shown tenacity and vision. They have kept the PDP united and focused even in tough times. We cannot afford to hand this party to people whose loyalty lies elsewhere,” he declared.
Echoing the forum’s stance, the Biase Chapter Chairman and Forum Secretary, Obia Ikika, accused Ikem’s detractors of being proxies of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). “It is shameful that those who left the PDP for the ADC now want to smuggle themselves back through our congress. Their betrayal weakened us, and we have the records of their defections. They should allow us to rebuild in peace,” he said.
Other Chapter Chairmen branded the anti-Ikem bloc as “political mercenaries desperate to wreck the PDP before fleeing to their new coalition platform.”
The flurry of endorsements has tilted the pendulum firmly in Ikem’s favour, setting the stage for a congress many analysts say may prove decisive in consolidating his hold on the party.
Observers note the development has further weakened the camp of Governor Seyi Makinde, whose allies have been engaged in a quiet power tussle with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over influence in the party.
Ntufam Ignatius Enoh, a PDP legacy member in Cross River, argued that betrayal remains the greatest threat to the party. “When Ayade defected to the APC, it was Wike who sustained the PDP in Cross River. Without him, the party would have collapsed. Yet, the same people who benefited from his support now betray him while flirting with the ADC,” Enoh noted.
Recall that the State Caucus, Central Caucus, and other major stakeholders have also endorsed Ikem for a second term, citing stability, unity, and loyalty as the hallmarks of his leadership.
