Cross River PDP Breaks Silence on Senator Jarigbe’s Defection to APC, Says Move Will Strengthen Party’s Unity
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
The Cross River State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has finally reacted to the defection of Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe to the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that the development poses no threat to the strength, structure, or stability of the opposition party in the state.
In a detailed statement released on Thursday and obtained by Akahi News, the PDP described Senator Jarigbe’s move as a “personal political decision” that neither undermines the party’s foundation nor diminishes its influence in Cross River politics. Instead, the party said the defection has further “reinforced its unity, discipline, and collective resolve to reclaim political relevance across all levels.”
PDP: Jarigbe’s Exit a Personal Choice, Not a Setback
According to Akahi News findings, the party leadership maintained that while it regrets the senator’s exit, the decision was his alone and does not reflect the will or sentiment of the majority of Cross River North constituents who, the PDP noted, remain firmly loyal to the party’s ideals.
In the official statement signed by the party’s Director of Media and Communications, Dr. Maurice Ekong, the PDP clarified that the mandate which Senator Jarigbe currently holds “was not a personal triumph but a product of the collective effort, sacrifice, and trust of loyal party members and supporters across Cross River North.”
“The senator’s defection to the APC is a personal choice, and while we respect his right to free association, we must emphasise that such a decision cannot erase the legacy of commitment, loyalty, and sacrifice that built the platform through which he attained his political elevation,” the statement read.
Dr. Ekong further told Akahi News that the PDP remains “unshaken and focused” on its mission to restore good governance, strengthen internal democracy, and deepen grassroots engagement in preparation for future elections.
Party’s Structure “Still Intact and Growing Stronger”
The Cross River PDP, under the leadership of the Caretaker Committee chaired by Rt. Hon. Bassey Ewa, reaffirmed its commitment to rebuilding the party’s structures across all local government areas.
In the statement seen by Akahi News, the leadership emphasised that the party’s organisational strength remains unbroken, with active grassroots mobilisation continuing across all three senatorial districts.
“Let it be known that the PDP in Cross River State remains solid, cohesive, and forward-looking. No individual’s departure can derail a movement that has endured decades of challenges and victories alike,” the party declared.
Observers who spoke with Akahi News noted that while Senator Jarigbe’s defection to the ruling APC may appear politically significant, it is unlikely to trigger a mass exodus from the PDP. Several key stakeholders in the state, including former lawmakers, youth leaders, and ward chairmen, have reaffirmed their loyalty to the opposition party’s rebuilding process.
PDP Promises Reforms and Renewed Engagement
In its renewed commitment to inclusivity and political reform, the PDP said it is currently undertaking a comprehensive reorganisation aimed at restoring public confidence and empowering its grassroots members.
Akahi News gathered that the Caretaker Committee has initiated a new membership drive, reconciliation meetings, and strategic planning sessions to address past grievances and strengthen internal communication.
Dr. Ekong urged party members to resist distractions and remain united behind the leadership of Rt. Hon. Bassey Ewa, whom he described as a bridge-builder and experienced political strategist.
“We encourage all loyal members and supporters to stay focused and undeterred. The PDP’s strength lies not in personalities but in its people, structures, and enduring values. We are moving forward — stronger, more determined, and more focused than ever before,” he stated.
Analysts React to Senator Jarigbe’s Defection
Political analysts who spoke with Akahi News observed that Senator Jarigbe’s defection reflects a broader realignment within Cross River politics as more politicians seek to align with the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, analysts also cautioned that the PDP remains a formidable force, especially in Cross River North, where its grassroots influence remains deeply rooted.
According to them, the senator’s move may have short-term effects on the political calculations in the region, but the PDP’s institutional presence and long-standing legacy in the state could still shape future outcomes significantly.
PDP Vows to Reclaim Political Dominance
In what appears to be a rallying call to members, the Cross River PDP reiterated that its vision goes beyond the actions of a single politician. The party pledged to intensify efforts to reconnect with the electorate, strengthen its youth and women wings, and present credible candidates capable of delivering good governance and accountability.
Akahi News gathered that the PDP plans to convene a state-wide stakeholders’ meeting soon to consolidate its recovery strategies and harmonise local structures ahead of the next political cycle.
As the statement concluded, the party reaffirmed its faith in the resilience of its supporters and its confidence in the democratic process:
“We remain proud of our identity as the most organised, people-oriented, and development-driven political party in Cross River State. No defection, no matter how symbolic, can weaken our spirit or derail our mission.”
A New Chapter in Cross River Politics
With Senator Jarigbe now officially in the APC, Cross River’s political landscape appears poised for another round of intense realignments. Yet, the PDP’s confident tone — as reported by Akahi News — suggests a party determined not to surrender its relevance or its vision of inclusive governance.
For now, both parties are expected to test their strengths in the coming months as political activities heighten across the state. But one thing remains clear: Cross River politics has entered a new chapter, and the coming years will reveal whether Senator Jarigbe’s defection strengthens or reshapes the balance of power.
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