The Cross River State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday conducted its state congress under heavy security presence, despite controversies over its scheduling.
The congress, which eventually returned the State Working Committee (SWC) led by Venatius Ikem for another term, had 1,541 delegates from the 18 local government areas participating.
Declaring the exercise open, Chairman of the Electoral Panel, Jones Chukwudi, assured delegates of transparency, noting that although a harmonised list of candidates existed, voting would still take place after accreditation in line with party guidelines.
He pledged credibility, promising to display the original result sheets and ballot papers before commencement.
The event drew key party stakeholders, including Senator Jarigbe Agom-Jarigbe, House of Representatives member Godwin Offiono, the 2023 governorship candidate Prof. Sandy Onor, and former University of Calabar Vice Chancellor, Prof. Zana Akpagu.
The exercise was held against the backdrop of conflicting statements from PDP’s national leadership on whether the congress would hold.
On Friday, acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, announced a postponement, while National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, countered with a directive that it should proceed.
Speaking afterwards, Senator Agom-Jarigbe declared the exercise legitimate and binding.
“This congress today is predicated on the decision of the NEC, and I don’t think anyone can challenge it,” he said, adding that competent leaders had been chosen to reposition the party ahead of 2027.
In his acceptance speech, Ikem acknowledged past missteps and pledged to reposition the PDP in Cross River State.
“Maybe you have given us a second chance to try again. Through dialogue and social media interactions in recent months, we have realised our shortcomings. This is the time to correct our mistakes and hopefully do better,” he said.
Ikem further noted that the party had struggled due to poor candidate choices that weakened its fortunes, but expressed optimism that with renewed unity and support, the PDP could bounce back stronger.
