The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State re‑elected its chairman, Barr. Venatius Ikem, and 38 members of the State Executive Committee (SEC) during a congress held on 27 September 2025 at the Venetian Arena in Calabar. The event was monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other statutory agencies, including the Police, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Services (DSS). INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Dr. Johnson Alalibo Sinikem, led a team of observers who ensured that the exercise followed all necessary guidelines.
Hon. Jones Chukwudi, Chairman of the Electoral Panel, praised the process for its transparency, stating, “For every election, according to the electoral guidelines, there are statutory institutions that must be present.” He declared Ikem and the newly elected executives duly elected. In his acceptance speech, Ikem pledged to rebuild the party and strengthen its structures ahead of future elections, saying, “With all the experiences we have gathered and the humility conferred on us today, we pledge to do much better.”
Prominent PDP leaders attended the congress, including former governorship candidate Senator Prof. Sandy Ojang Onor, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe of Cross River North, former Deputy Governor Barr. Efiok Cobham, and Hon. Eta Mbora. They praised the adherence to rules and the transparency of the process. Senator Jarigbe emphasized the need for unity, noting, “The way forward is for us to work together in order to achieve success in 2027.”
The successful conduct of the congress is seen as a significant step forward for the PDP in Cross River State. Stakeholders view the re‑election of Ikem and the new SEC members as the beginning of a new era of leadership, with the party now focusing on reconciliation and unity to position itself for success in the 2027 elections.
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