In response to significant setbacks, including last year’s governorship election defeat and a decline in membership, Cross River State PDP Chairman Vena Ikem has announced plans to overhaul the party’s structure to regain its footing.
During a stakeholders’ meeting in Calabar aimed at revitalizing the party, Ikem emphasized that the PDP still enjoys substantial grassroots support. “We’re committed to restructuring our party. Although I’m disappointed by our loss in the governorship elections, I’m proud of the effort we put in,” he said.
Ikem attributed the 2023 election loss to internal conflicts and disunity within the party. “We approached the election divided, which played into our opponents’ hands. We had taken our support and past successes for granted.”
Taking responsibility for the party’s recent struggles, Ikem urged stakeholders to prioritize collective goals over personal interests. “We need to collaborate and move beyond individual agendas. The enthusiasm for the PDP remains strong, and we will bounce back,” he added.
Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing the Northern Senatorial District, expressed optimism about the party’s future, noting that the ruling APC is not infallible. “The APC capitalized on our mistakes, but they are not immune to errors. Their missteps will provide us with opportunities to regain control,” Jarigbe stated.
Prof. Sandy Onor, the PDP governorship candidate in the 2023 election, reassured party members that despite recent losses, the PDP will recover and strengthen its position.
