By Edem Ekpo
Determined to reclaim its political foothold in Cross River State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has kicked off a robust mobilisation drive in the Southern Senatorial District, signaling its readiness to bounce back in the 2027 general elections.
The party held an expansive interactive session on Monday at Pristine Events Centre in Calabar, drawing together party chieftains, former government officials, grassroots organisers, youth leaders, women representatives, and loyalists from across the zone.
The meeting served as a strategic response to internal rifts, electoral setbacks, and swirling speculations about a potential alliance between the PDP and the African Democratic Congress (ADC)—rumours party leaders have now firmly debunked.
State PDP Chairman, Hon. Vena Ikem, took the lead in addressing concerns, branding the merger talk as “fictional and deliberately misleading.” He emphasized that the PDP remains self-sufficient, historically grounded, and focused on rebuilding trust within its ranks.
“There is no merger, no coalition talk. These distractions only serve to divide us,” Ikem declared. “Our focus is clear—rebuilding the party and regaining power through unity and strategy.”
Former Deputy Governor, H.E. Efiok Cobham, urged party members to let go of past grievances and work collectively towards internal reconciliation. He reaffirmed the Southern Senatorial District’s loyalty to the party and emphasized the need for renewed engagement at the grassroots level.
Veteran party leader, Ntufam Ekpo Okon, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the PDP’s biggest challenge isn’t at the local level but at the national leadership.
“We shouldn’t waste energy fighting ADC or any fringe party. The real political contest lies with the APC,” Okon stressed.
Prominent academic and politician, Mr. Arthur Jarvis, also charged stakeholders to remain vigilant and avoid being lured by the rhetoric of the ruling party.
“The grass isn’t greener on the other side. If we stay committed, the PDP can rise stronger,” Jarvis added.
Prof. Zana Akpagu, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, offered a personal testimony of his political journey, expressing his firm loyalty to the PDP.
“PDP has always been my home. I achieved political peace and growth here. My brief stint with APC was unproductive. We must make this party work—together,” he declared.
Several ward and chapter chairmen also spoke, reaffirming their commitment to ongoing reconciliation and grassroots mobilisation efforts.
The session culminated in a unanimous agreement to spread the message of peace, hope, and party unity throughout the Southern Senatorial District and beyond.
Participants left the gathering upbeat, with a collective resolve to retool and re-energize the PDP for a stronger showing in 2027.