PDP Re-Elects Venatius Ikem as Chairman, Constitutes New Executive in Cross River
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has reconstituted its state executive committee, returning Barrister Venatius Ikem as Chairman for a second term following a peaceful and well-attended congress held on Saturday, 27 September 2025.
The congress, which took place at the Venetian Arena in Calabar, saw 1,541 delegates from all 18 local government areas participate in the electoral process. Out of 39 candidates vying for various positions, Ikem secured a resounding 1,501 votes, reaffirming his leadership and extending his tenure until 2029.
Transparent Electoral Process
The seven-member electoral panel, chaired by Rt. Hon. Jones Chukwudi Onyerem, supervised the exercise and officially declared the winners at the end of the process. The Resident Electoral Commissioner for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr Johnson Alalibo, was present to observe the proceedings, further lending credibility to the election.
Key positions filled during the congress include:
- Deputy Chairman: Polycarp Effiom
- Vice Chairmen: Austin Edibe (North), Ekawo Irek (Central), Stephen Asuquo (South)
- Secretary: Joseph Obi Bissong
- Treasurer: Njar Ekwe
- Women Leader: Florence Inyang
- Youth Leader: Boniface Odey
Party Leaders Commend Process
Senator Jarigbe Agom, the PDP leader in Cross River and Senator representing the Northern Senatorial District, described the congress as “peaceful, transparent, and compliant with NEC guidelines.”
Similarly, Senator Sandy Onor, the party’s 2023 governorship candidate, expressed confidence in the new leadership, highlighting its inclusiveness and potential to reposition the PDP for future electoral victories in the state.
Ikem Pledges Reforms
In his acceptance speech, Barrister Ikem thanked delegates for their confidence and promised to correct past shortcomings while strengthening party structures across the state.
“This is a renewed mandate to deliver better results for our great party. We will work tirelessly to rebuild and prepare PDP for success at all levels,” he said.
The newly elected executive is expected to drive the PDP’s political agenda in Cross River until 2029, with analysts predicting an intensified campaign to reclaim the state in future elections.
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