The Cross River State faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has recorded a fresh wave of defections as thousands of members from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other political parties joined its ranks in Betem Community, Ehom Ward, Biase Local Government Area.
The mass defection is seen as a significant political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the PDP describing the influx as a boost to its grassroots mobilisation efforts across the state.
Among the prominent defectors was Mrs. James Arikpo, widely regarded as the pioneer who introduced the APC to Ehom Ward. Others included Dr. Abinz Otoy, a former House of Assembly aspirant, Prof. Essien Ekpenyong, and an APC chieftain identified as LL Cool J, alongside a large number of their supporters.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Mrs. Arikpo said worsening economic conditions, rising unemployment and what she described as the APC-led administration’s failure to deliver meaningful development at the grassroots informed her decision to leave the party.
Other defectors said they had decided to “return home” to the PDP because they believe the party offers a more practical blueprint for addressing the developmental challenges facing Cross River State and the country. They expressed confidence that the PDP would fulfil its promises, while accusing their former political parties of failing to meet the expectations of Nigerians.
“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 said. 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 development as a major milestone for the party.
“The decision you have taken today is timely and commendable. We welcome you wholeheartedly into the Peoples Democratic Party,” Bisong said. Addressing the gathering, the Wike-backed PDP governorship candidate in Cross River State, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, assured the new members of equal opportunities and full integration into the party.
He promised that if elected governor in 2027, his administration would focus on infrastructure development, job creation, economic revitalisation and inclusive governance. “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, youth employment and policies aimed at improving the state’s economy as key priorities of his proposed administration.
The event was attended by several PDP leaders, including the party’s 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.