By Ndifon Joseph
The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, has pledged to transform the state through massive infrastructure development and job creation if elected in the 2027 governorship election.
Jarvis made the promise on Sunday during a political gathering at Betem Community in Biase Local Government Area, where the PDP received a large number of defectors from different political parties across Ehom Ward.
Addressing party members and the new entrants, the PDP flag bearer assured the defectors of equal rights and opportunities within the party, stressing that his administration would be anchored on inclusive governance and sustainable development.
“As you have all joined our big family, the PDP, have it at the back of your minds that we are now one family with equal rights and privileges. Together, we will turn Cross River State into a construction site and create job opportunities for our people,” he said.
The event witnessed the defection of several notable political figures, including Mrs. James Arikpo, who is widely regarded as the first person to introduce the All Progressives Congress (APC) into Ehom Ward.
Explaining her decision to join the PDP, Arikpo cited rising unemployment, economic hardship and what she described as the inability of the current APC-led administration to deliver the dividends of democracy to grassroots communities.
Also speaking, Dr. Abinz Otoy, a former House of Assembly aspirant on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), said he and his supporters had decided to “return home” to the PDP because they believe it possesses a practical blueprint for addressing the developmental challenges facing Cross River State and Nigeria.
Similarly, Prof. Essien Ekpenyong, who defected from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), expressed satisfaction at rejoining the PDP, describing it as the political family where he truly belongs.
An APC chieftain identified as LL Cool J also announced his defection, criticizing his former party for what he described as its inability to fulfill campaign promises.
“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,” he said.
Receiving the defectors on behalf of the Cross River State PDP Chairman, Barr. Vena Ikem, the party’s State Secretary, Chief Joe Obi Bisong, described their decision as timely and assured them of full acceptance into the party.
“The decision you have taken today is timely and a great one. We welcome you wholeheartedly into the Peoples Democratic Party,” Bisong said.
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, Pst. Obia Ikika; the party’s Akpabuyo House of Assembly candidate, Mr. Austin Patron; South-South PDP Zonal Ex Officio, Mr. Ekpah Fidelis; State Financial Secretary, Dr. Edadi Chris; State Assistant Youth Leader (South), Mr. Effiom Attoe; Ward Chairman, Mr. Agbor Gabriel; as well as other party officials, supporters, women and youth groups.
Jarvis, whose background is rooted in the private sector, said his experience in business management, investment attraction and job creation has prepared him to drive economic growth and restore public confidence in governance.
He maintained that tackling unemployment, improving infrastructure and stimulating economic development through road construction and other public works would be among the key priorities of his administration if elected.