By Edem Ekpo
The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Cross River State, has sworn in its newly elected officials at a ceremony that brought together party stakeholders, executive members, and supporters from across the state.
The swearing-in, held on Monday, September 29, 2025, in Calabar, was conducted by Dr. Ann Agi who administered the oath of office to the officials.
Addressing the gathering, the re-elected State Chairman, Venatius Ikem, commended party leaders and members for their resilience and loyalty during what he described as turbulent times.
He recalled the challenges of the past four years, noting that despite electoral setbacks, the PDP had remained strong at the grassroots.
“Most importantly, I believe there is nothing like unity. If we have a united front, a united purpose, we will achieve great results,” Ikem said.
The PDP Chairman expressed confidence that the blend of returning and new executive members would enable the party to refocus and strengthen its structures ahead of next year’s elections.
Ikem also praised the commitment of leaders who had sustained the PDP outside government, saying his re-election was a sign that “God is not done with us yet.” He urged members to put aside personal interests and disputes, stressing that the party must harness its grassroots strength to return to winning ways.
Also speaking, the Ogoja Chapter Chairman, Comrade Odidi Emmanuel Achong, explained that the exercise coincided with the exact date the tenure of the previous administration ended, insisting the process was timely and necessary to avoid a vacuum.
Achong, who is the Leader of the PDP Chapter Chairmen forum dismissed claims that re-electing the former executive was a misstep, stressing that it was a unanimous decision by delegates.
“PDP is a strong political party that needs stability. We stood firm to ensure the executive returned to keep the party united,” Achong said.
The event was attended by party stakeholders, supporters, and grassroots leaders from across the state.