The crisis within the Cross River State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has escalated as the State Executive Committee (SEC) has firmly rejected the directive from the party’s national headquarters to reinstate Mr. Venatius Ikem as the state chairman.
In a statement signed by the State Secretary, Mr. Anthony Edako, the PDP officials declared that any move to reinstate Ikem without due process is null and void.
Edako emphasized that both the National Working Committee (NWC) and the State Executive Committee (SEC) must convene and deliberate before any decision can be made regarding Ikem’s status.
Edako criticized the National Organizing Secretary for overstepping his authority, describing his actions as ultra vires (beyond his powers).
He stated, “Any information or announcements made regarding the reinstatement of the suspended chairman before the NEC meeting with stakeholders from Cross River State takes place and a decision is reached are null and void.”
He further cautioned against unauthorized actions, urging party members to remain united and focused on the party’s shared goals. “We will not be swayed by unauthorized and misguided actions that seek to undermine the authority of our party’s leadership,” Edako added.
The party also dismissed a letter circulating on social media, purportedly written by the National Organizing Secretary, which claimed to reinstate Ikem. The PDP maintained that only the National Chairman and Secretary have the authority to issue such a directive.
Ikem was suspended on November 22, 2024, following a recommendation by the party’s Disciplinary Committee in the state. The suspension was communicated to the national body, and the NWC had agreed to convene a meeting with Cross River stakeholders to determine Ikem’s fate. However, this crucial meeting has yet to take place.
Edako reiterated that the meeting between the NWC and Cross River stakeholders is essential to ensure a transparent, fair, and constitutionally compliant decision-making process. Until then, the party insists that Ikem remains suspended.
The rejection of Ikem’s reinstatement by the State Exco has further deepened the crisis within the Cross River PDP.
Social Plugin