PDP Regroups, Charts Roadmap for 2027 Comeback
By Ekanem Asuquo
In a renewed push to reclaim political dominance in Cross River State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has embarked on strategic regrouping ahead of the 2027 general elections, beginning with a high-level interactive session with stakeholders from the Southern Senatorial District in Calabar. The meeting focused on rebuilding internal cohesion, dispelling merger rumours, and reaffirming the party’s grassroots strength.
Held at the Pristine Events Centre on Monday, the session drew prominent political figures including former public office holders, youth and women representatives, grassroots mobilisers, and party loyalists from across the southern zone.
The meeting was convened amid rising speculation on social media about a potential coalition between the PDP and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), rumours the party leadership swiftly dispelled.
State PDP Chairman, Hon. Vena Ikem, described the claims as “baseless and calculated to distract loyal members,” reaffirming that the PDP remains a resilient, independent institution with deep roots in the state.
“Let it be clear that the PDP in Cross River State is not in talks with ADC or any other party on any merger or coalition,” Ikem said. “Our focus is on restoring trust and unity among members as we prepare to retake the reins of leadership through democratic means.”
Former Deputy Governor of the state, H.E. Efiok Cobham, called on members to put aside personal grievances and assured the gathering that all lingering internal disputes would be resolved. He restated the Southern District's commitment to the PDP and encouraged active engagement ahead of the 2027 polls.
Party elder and former NDDC Commissioner, Ntufam Ekpo Okon, stressed that the party’s core challenges stem from the national leadership rather than the grassroots, and urged members to stay mobilized and focused
. “We must unite to confront the APC, not the ADC, at all levels, especially as we approach 2027,” he said.
Also speaking, founder of Arthur Jarvis University, Mr. Arthur Jarvis, urged stakeholders not to be swayed by the allure of the ruling party.
“The grass isn’t greener on the other side,” Jarvis said. “We can still rebuild this party if we stand together and protect its soul.”
Adding his voice, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Zana Akpagu, reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP, describing his time with the party as peaceful and rewarding.
“PDP has been my political home, and I’ve benefited immensely from it. My experience with the APC was disappointing. Now is the time to unite and make this party functional again,” he said.
Ward and chapter chairmen, along with other local party officials, also took turns to express their views, pledge loyalty, and commend the leadership’s reconciliatory approach.
A major resolution adopted at the meeting was the commitment to take the message of peace, unity, and renewed political engagement back to the grassroots.
The interactive session ended on a hopeful note, with members applauding the initiative and reiterating their commitment to repositioning the PDP as a strong force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
