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Tag: #PDP

  • In The Present Circumstance, No serious Politician With Electoral Ambition Will Seek To Contest On To The Platform Of The PDP – Bukola Saraki

    In The Present Circumstance, No serious Politician With Electoral Ambition Will Seek To Contest On To The Platform Of The PDP – Bukola Saraki

    Former Governor of Kwara State, former Nigerian Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has stated that with the current crisis going on in the party, no serious politician with electoral ambition will seek to contest on the platform of the PDP.

    Saraki made the disclosure on November 12th 2025, when members of the Board of Trustees led by Amb. Hassan Adamu, paid him a courtesy visit to seek his counsel on the way forward for the PDP.

    Sarika took to his veried Facebook page, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, to report the outcome of the meeting, noted that going with the convention in Ibadan on 15 – 16 November 2025 will only serve to further fuel the crisis. He stated that going ahead with the convention is a waste of efforts, and that it does not have his support.

    Find full text “On 12 November 2025, I had the pleasure to receive members of the BOT Reconciliation Team of our great party, the PDP, led by Wakili Adamawa, Amb. Hassan Adamu. They requested for a meeting in order to seek my opinion on the possible ways of restoring peace within the party. It was a meaningful and incisive meeting during which matters of great importance affecting our party were discussed.

    “We deliberated extensively on issues relating to the National Convention scheduled for 15-16 November 2025 in Ibadan.

    “In summary, I expressed deep regret that, despite the selfless and arduous efforts by some of us, the Convention has become mired in extensive controversy, both political and legal. This does not bode well for not only our party, but for Nigeria’s democracy in general.

    “I made it clear to the BOT team that political matters can hardly be resolved through the courts. Affairs of political parties are best resolved amicably with all sides seated round the table. Legal battles will only continue to cause friction.

    “As it stands, the fact is that there are conflicting court orders in relation to the validity of the scheduled convention. As a result, there is no assurance as to whether the conduct and outcome of the convention will stand.

    “As a leader, on whose shoulder lies the political weight of the yearnings and aspiration of my people, I cannot in all good conscience take or be part of any action that will jeopardise their aspirations

    “My advice to the BOT team is that the only solution available to us now is for the party to set up a Caretaker Committee to steer the affairs of the party for the time being. This must be done in the next two days. This is the path to true reconciliation and stability of the Party. It is also the best way to give confidence to our members who intend to contest elections on the PDP platform. In the present circumstance, no serious politician with electoral ambition will seek to contest on the platform of the PDP, not knowing whether his or her nomination will be valid or declared null and void.

    “It is clear that going ahead with the National Convention in Ibadan on 15-16 November 2025 will only serve to further fuel the present crisis. Therefore, going ahead with the Convention as scheduled is a waste of efforts, It does not have my support. It’s not too late to find a win-win solution”.

  • C’River PDP Constitutes 20-Member Committee For September Congress

    C’River PDP Constitutes 20-Member Committee For September Congress

    Culled from Weekenders

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has intensified preparations for its September 27, 2025 State Congress with the unveiling of a 20-member committee to steer the exercise.

    A statement signed by the State Chairman, Barr. Venatius Ikem, said the panel will oversee the planning and coordination of the congress to ensure it is credible, transparent, and rancour-free.

    The committee is chaired by former University of Calabar Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Zana Akpagu, while Chief (Barr.) Helen Bocco serves as Secretary.

    Other prominent members include Prof. Walter Mboto, Prof. Tom Ogar, Rt. Hon. Fred Osim, Barr. Mike Aniah, Barr. Francis Anom, Barr. Victor Edim, and Barr. Paul Ebiala.

    Also named are Dr. Ivon Ettah, Hon. Ina Ibor, Hon. Ayuk Ntui, alongside several respected party leaders representing the state’s 18 Local Government Areas.

    Ikem described the team as “a reputable mix of experience and competence,” noting that its composition underscores the PDP’s commitment to inclusivity and internal democracy. He expressed confidence that the committee would deliver a seamless congress capable of repositioning the party for greater political relevance in the state.

    The congress is expected to attract massive participation from party faithful, as stakeholders gear up for a landmark event that will define the PDP’s leadership and strategic direction in Cross River State.

  • C’River Central PDP Stakeholders Backs State Leadership, Frowns At The National Women Leader 

    C’River Central PDP Stakeholders Backs State Leadership, Frowns At The National Women Leader 

     

    By Ndifon Joseph – Calabar

    Stakeholders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State Central Senatorial District, have thrown their weight behind the position of the state leadership on elective positions, reaffirming their collective commitment to present a united front that will guarantee victory for the party.

    The endorsement formed part of a five-point communique reached during a well-attended meeting held at Planet Guest House, Calabar, on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

    In a communique signed by the National Ex-Officio, Arc. Ekom Akonjom, chapter chairmen, and leaders, they condemned the activities of “some former members who have defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), but through the deliberate machinations of the National Women Leader, Ms. Amina Arong, has acquired nomination forms to contest positions in the forthcoming State Congress” with the intentions of moving the party structure to the ADC.

    They also “resolved to stand firmly by the position of the state leadership; which maintains that all elective positions in the senatorial district and local government areas should remain in their current domiciled locations.”

    Further, they “endorsed the zoning arrangements as earlier agreed, reiterated unflinching loyalty to the party and it’s leadership at the state and national level, and pledged to work assiduously to strengthen the party and ensure successes in all future elections.”

    The timely meeting was presided over by Chief Joe Obi Bisong, and in attendance were chapter chairmen and prominent leaders including, Mr. Fidelis Ekpah, South-South Zonal Ex-Officio, Prince Mike Ojisi, State Publicity Secretary, Barr. Ikpi Eyong Ubana, State Legal Adviser.

    Others include, Chief Mark Obi; Hon. Fred Okpa Osim; Hon. Friday Okpeche; Hon. Itam Abang; Hon. Moses Onoh; Mrs Ada Izani; Mr. Ayuk Ntui Tandu; Prof. Walter Mboto; Hon. Inah Ubi; Mrs Margaret Onen Ph.D, amongst others.

  • PDP Cross River Northern Senatorial Holds Reconciliatory Meeting

     

    It was a moment of ease for members of the People’s Democratic Party PDP, as leaders of the party in Northern Senatorial District, converged at the residence of Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, today Thursday 6th March 2025, to chat a way forward for the party.

    The meeting which was conveyed by the leader of the party in the state, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, to reconcile all arrived members of the party that led to the suspension of the state party chairman, Mr Venatius Ikem.

    The leader of the party, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, acknowledged the fact that the suspension of the party chairman had some leaders played pivotal role, was however reversed by the National Working Committee of the party. A decision which has been accepted by the executive committee members of the party from northern senatorial district. He enjoined party leaders to embrace peace and charged them to put the collective interest of the party above personal interest.

    He averred that no meaningful development can be achieved when the party is divided, called on stakeholders to bury whatever grievances that may have culminated into the disagreement that had ensued that led to the suspension of the state chairman.

    He used the opportunity to thank party faithfuls for the continuous support and charged them to be more united now than ever.

    The members representing Ogoja/Yala and Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituencies, Hon Godwin Offiono and Hon Peter Akpanke took turns to encourage party members to embrace peace as all the leaders have seen the need to summon them for the reconciliatory meeting.

    Akpanke used the opportunity to demiss insinuation of his defection to the All Progressive Party.

    He admonished party faithfuls to remain resolute in their support for the party as there nothing happening in the APC in the northern senatorial district of the state.

    Leaders from the five local government areas took turn to commend the party leadership in its wisdom to return the state party chairman and pledged their support for the betterment of the party.

    On his part, the state party chairman, Mr Venatius Ikem, thanked Sen Jarigbe Agom, for making it possible to convey the crowd for the all important meeting the reconciliation.

    He used the opportunity to apologized for whatever ills he may have done in the course of administering the party and pledged to be more committed to the party as he forged ahead.

  • Cross River PDP Frowns at the Cross River Local Government Amendment Bill 2025

    Press Release

    Cross River PDP Frowns at the Cross River Local Government Amendment Bill 2025

    The Cross River State Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed utter displeasure and dis-affection with the Cross River State House of Assembly (CRSHA) for the hasty passage of the Local Government Amendment Bill 2025. The party condemns this legislative ambush, describing it as a direct contradiction of the Supreme Court’s judgment on Local Government Autonomy and an orchestrated scheme to arm-twist, emasculate, and misappropriate local government resources.

    Despite widespread public condemnation, the House proceeded with the bill, defending her actions by wrongly relying on Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution, which merely empowers states to enact laws for local government administration, but not to undermine their autonomy or divert their funds.

    The PDP identifies several draconian and exploitative provisions within the bill, which place an unbearable financial burden on the 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Cross River State. These include:

    Expansion of statutory political appointees under each Local Government Chairman from 25 to 50 persons, thereby increasing the financial strain on already underfunded councils.

    – Unauthorized monthly deduction of 1% for House of Assembly “oversight functions.”

    – 0.5% deduction for the State Community and Social Development Agency

    – 1% deduction for funding the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), despite the state government’s primary responsibility for higher education funding

    – 0.5% deduction for the Office of the State Auditor General, ₦1 million mandatory monthly contribution from each LGA to the Cross River State Reserve Fund

    – 4% deduction for the Cross River State Road Maintenance Agency, a responsibility that should be handled by the state government, not the local councils.

    The People’s Democratic Party sees this law as an evil plot by the Otu-led APC administration to plunder resources meant for grassroots development. The party categorically states that:

    The financial autonomy of LGAs is sacrosanct and must not be subjected to the manipulative whims of the state government.

    The hasty passage and signing of this law reveal a desperate attempt to siphon local government funds for political patronage ahead of the 2025 local government elections.

    The people of Cross River State must resist this oppressive, anti-development, and unconstitutional law through all legal and democratic means.

    The PDP, therefore, alerts the good people of Cross River State and the entire nation to this daylight robbery of local government funds under the guise of legislative amendments.

    The party remains committed to protecting democracy, defending local government autonomy, and ensuring that public resources are used for grassroots development rather than political enrichment.

    Signed:

    Prince Mike Ojisi
    Publicity Secretary

  • Former Gov Ben Ayade Special Adviser, Boniface Ishamali Defects To PDP With Supporters In Obudu

     

    There is excitement in the camp of the Obudu Local Government Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party, as the party receives key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) back to the fold.

    Among the prominent APC stakeholders who returned is the former Senior Special Adviser Petroleum, and Chairman Downstream, Hon. Boniface Ishamali.

    Speaking on behalf of other defectors, Hon. Ishamali said their decision to return to the PDP was informed by the need to belong to a party that remains the number one choice of Cross River North Senatorial District since the return of democratic rule in 1999.

    He appreciated the PDP for the great achievement recorded in the Senatorial District under the leadership of Distinguished Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe and for always putting the people’s interest above other considerations as well, for receiving them back into the party with open arms.

    “PDP has been my party. I was in APC briefly for sabbatical and I realized the APC has nothing to offer crossiverians and Nigeria as a party which is why I have returned to work tirelessly for the betterment of our people with the support of our leaders in the North”, Boniface added.

    He specifically commended Senator Jarigbe’s leadership style and expressed the optimism that, the exceptional way he has led the party would translate into more resounding electoral victories in subsequent elections in the Senatorial District and State at large.

    The Cross River State PDP is set to receive more defections in the coming weeks.

  • Sen Jarigbe Agom, Leader Of CRS PDP Addresses Party Faithfuls On Suspension Of The State Chairman, Vena Ikem

    SPEECH BY SENATOR JARIGBE AGOM JARIGBE, LEADER OF THE PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP) IN CROSS RIVER STATE, ON THE SUSPENSION OF THE STATE CHAIRMAN AND THE APPOINTMENT OF AN ACTING CHAIRMAN

    My dear compatriots in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State,

    Along with other well- meaning Leaders of our great Party, I take responsibility of the goings-on in our Party, not only as your Senator and Leader but as a steadfast member of this great Party, committed to its unity, progress, and unrelenting pursuit of excellence in governance and representation.

    The decision by the State Executive Committee of our Party to suspend the State Chairman and appoint Chief Austin Edibe as Acting Chairman is a significant and deliberate step to reposition our Party for future success. This action, taken in line with the provisions of our Party’s Constitution, reflects the will of the majority and the resolute commitment of our Party to strengthen its structures and processes.

    Let me begin by heartily congratulating Chief Austin Edibe on his new role as the Acting Chairman of our great Party. Chief Edibe, your selection is a testament to your unwavering dedication, leadership qualities, and capacity to steer our Party toward its desired goals. We have full confidence in your ability to build bridges, inspire confidence, and chart a course that will make our Party the envy of others.

    I also wish to commend the members of the State Executive Committee for their bold and decisive action to reposition the Party. You have demonstrated courage and foresight, prioritizing the collective interest of the PDP above all else. This is the kind of leadership that inspires hope and drives progress.

    To our outgoing Chairman, Mr. Vena Ikem, I express my heartfelt gratitude for your efforts in leading our Party over the past three years. Leadership comes with its unique challenges, and I commend you for your dedication during your tenure. As we transition, I urge you to submit to the decision of the majority, remain a loyal and committed party man, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the PDP in any capacity. We wish you well in your future political endeavors and trust that your wealth of experience will continue to benefit the Party.

    I must also extend my deepest appreciation to the Leaders of our Party across the state—our former Governors, Deputy Governor, Senators, members of the House of Representatives, and the House of Assembly. Your steadfastness and timely intervention have shown that true leadership is about standing up for the Party when it matters most. Your actions have inspired confidence and galvanized our supporters to remain loyal to the PDP.

    To the Leaders of our Party in all Local Government Areas, and to our teeming supporters, I thank you for your unyielding commitment and steadfastness. You are the backbone of the PDP, and your dedication is the reason we continue to stand tall in the face of challenges.

    As your Senator and Leader, alongside our representatives in the House of Representatives and our sole representative in the State House of Assembly, I assure you that we will continue to support the Party in every way possible. Together, we will work tirelessly to make the PDP a force to be reckoned with in Cross River State and beyond.

    Finally, I call on all members of our Party to eschew divisiveness and embrace peace and mutual understanding. Let us remember that the task ahead is not a walk in the park. Rebuilding, strengthening, and repositioning the PDP will require the collective effort of everyone. Let us put aside personal differences and unite for the common good. The future of our Party depends on our ability to work together, hand in hand, for a brighter tomorrow.

    Once again, I congratulate Chief Austin Edibe and thank every one of you for your dedication to this great Party. Let us move forward with renewed determination, knowing that our best days are ahead.

    Thank you, and God bless the People’s Democratic Party.

    Long live Cross River State.
    Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Senator Jarigbe A. Jarigbe, DSSRS
    Leader, PDP, Cross River State

  • Buda Ward PDP Suspends Cross River State Secretary, Mr Anthony Edako, For Alleged Anti-party

    *PDP Suspends Cross River State

    Buda Ward, Boki LGA, Cross River State of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, has suspended the State Secretary of the party, Mr. Anthony Edako, indefinitely, effective from the 11th of September, 2024.

    The decision was formally communicated through a letter signed by key members of the ward, citing repeated acts of disregard for party leadership and involvement in anti-party activities.

    According to the letter issued by the Ward Chairman, Mr. James Ofre Enyia, and co-signed by prominent ward stakeholders, Mr. Edako’s suspension follows his continued engagement in activities contrary to the best interests of the party. Specifically, it was highlighted that Mr. Edako unilaterally took decisions affecting the ward executive members without proper consultation, disregarding the PDP’s established protocols of teamwork and consultation. His actions, which allegedly undermined the ward’s stakeholders, were considered violations of party principles.

    The letter emphasizes that Mr. Edako’s involvement in anti-party activities, alongside his failure to follow due process, necessitated the imposition of an indefinite suspension. The party leadership in Buda Ward made it clear that this action would remain in effect pending further investigations and recommendations from the party’s disciplinary bodies.

    In conclusion, the letter directed Mr. Edako to refrain from participating in any party-related activities in his capacity as the State Secretary until the disciplinary process has been concluded. The matter has been escalated, with copies of the suspension letter sent to the PDP National Chairman, the PDP State Chairman, and other relevant party bodies for further review.

    The suspension of a key official such as Mr. Anthony Edako marks a pivotal moment for the PDP in Cross River State as the party seeks to enforce internal discipline and maintain unity among its members ahead of forthcoming political activities.

  • Appeal Court Sacks Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Declares APC Candidate Winner

    A three-member panel, of the Court of Appeal in a unanimous decision on Sunday, held that Muftwang was not validly sponsored by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as provided by Section 285(2) of the Nigerian Constitution.

    The court declared Nentanwe Yilwatda Goshwe of the APC as duly elected governor of Plateau State.

    A three-member panel, in a unanimous decision on Sunday, held that Muftwang was not validly sponsored by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as provided by Section 285(2) of the Nigerian Constitution.

     

  • Court Of Appeal Sacks Zamfara Governor, Orders Rerun

     

    The Court of Appeal in Abuja has voided the election of Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State.

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Lawal the March 18 governorship election winner.

    However, the All Progressives Congress (APC) challenged the victory of Lawal, who ran under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    The tribunal had upheld Lawal’s election, but the APC proceeded to the Appeal Court.

    On Thursday, a three-member panel of justices annulled Lawal’s victory and ordered a rerun of the election in three local government areas.

    The affected LGAs are Maradun, Birnin Magaji and Bukuyun.