The Cross River State faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has received a large number of defectors from various political parties in Betem Community, Ehom Ward, Biase Local Government Area, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Key Highlights:
- PDP receives defectors from APC, ADC, NDC and other political parties in Biase LGA.
- Former APC pioneer in Ehom Ward, Mrs. James Arikpo, cites hardship and unemployment as reasons for defecting.
- PDP leaders promise equal opportunities for new members.
- Governorship candidate Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong pledges jobs, infrastructure and inclusive governance.
- Party says the influx strengthens its grassroots structure ahead of the 2027 elections.
The event witnessed the defection of several prominent political figures, including Mrs. James Arikpo, widely recognised as the first person to introduce the All Progressives Congress (APC) into Ehom Ward.
Others who joined the PDP include Dr. Abinz Otoy, a former House of Assembly aspirant on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Prof. Essien Ekpenyong from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and an APC chieftain identified as LL Cool J, alongside numerous supporters.
Explaining her decision to join the PDP, Mrs. Arikpo cited rising unemployment, economic hardship and what she described as the inability of the APC-led administration to deliver meaningful development at the grassroots.
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Other defectors said they had decided to “return home” to the PDP because they believe the party has a practical blueprint for addressing the developmental challenges facing Cross River State and Nigeria.
They expressed confidence in the PDP, describing it as a party capable of fulfilling its promises while criticising their former parties for failing to meet public expectations.
“The PDP is the most trustworthy political party we have in Nigeria. They make promises and keep them, unlike the APC, which has become known for failing to deliver on many of its campaign promises,” the defectors stated.
Receiving the new members on behalf of the Cross River State PDP Chairman, Barr. Vena Ikem, the party’s State Secretary, Chief Joe Obi Bisong, described the defections as a significant boost to the party’s fortunes.
“The decision you have taken today is timely and commendable. We welcome you wholeheartedly into the Peoples Democratic Party,” Bisong said.
Speaking at the event, the Wike-aligned PDP governorship candidate in Cross River State, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, assured the defectors of equal rights and opportunities within the party.
He pledged to transform Cross River State through massive infrastructure development, job creation and people-oriented governance if elected governor in 2027.
“As you have all joined our great family, the PDP, know that we are now one family with equal rights and privileges. Together, we will turn Cross River State into a construction site and create employment opportunities for our people,” Archibong said.
He identified road construction, economic revitalisation, youth employment and inclusive governance as key priorities of his administration.
The event was attended by several party leaders, including the PDP candidate for Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency, Barr. Bassey O. Bassey; the House of Assembly candidate for Biase State Constituency, Pastor Obia Ikika; state party officials and other stakeholders.
