RismadarVoice Reporters
October 20, 2026
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State has expressed its willingness to welcome former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) State Chairman, Venatius Ikem, following his resignation amid internal disagreements within the opposition party.
The APC State Chairman, Chris Eta, disclosed the party’s position on Tuesday while responding to questions from journalists at his office in Calabar.
Eta clarified that the ruling party had not formally entered discussions with Ikem but would welcome him if he decided to join its ranks.
He described the APC as an inclusive political platform willing to accommodate politicians seeking new opportunities, irrespective of their previous affiliations.
The development follows Ikem’s resignation on October 16, 2026, after five years as Cross River PDP chairman.
In his resignation letter, Ikem cited persistent internal disagreements, conflicting political positions and what he described as a crisis of direction and leadership coherence within the party.
He explained that the disagreements had made it increasingly difficult to discharge his responsibilities and maintain unity among party stakeholders.
His resignation has intensified speculation about his political future, particularly as political parties strengthen their structures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Although reports suggest that Ikem could join the APC alongside supporters, no completed defection had been publicly confirmed at the time of reporting.
Meanwhile, the Cross River PDP has dismissed suggestions that the former chairman’s resignation would weaken its political structure or electoral prospects.
In a statement signed by the State Secretary, Joe Obi Bisong, the party announced plans to convene a meeting of its State Executive Committee to deliberate on the development and determine the next steps.
Bisong disclosed that the party leadership became aware of Ikem’s resignation through social media, adding that the leadership transition would be handled in accordance with Article 46(6) of the PDP Constitution.
He urged party members and supporters to remain calm, united and committed to strengthening the party ahead of the forthcoming elections.
The PDP maintained that its political strength depended on its collective membership and established structures rather than any single individual.
The party also indicated that arrangements would be made to fill the leadership vacancy and sustain its activities across the state.
Ikem’s departure comes at a critical period for the opposition party as preparations intensify for the 2027 governorship and general elections.
While the APC has signalled its willingness to receive the former chairman, the PDP insists that his resignation will not derail its political objectives.
Attention now turns to the planned State Executive Committee meeting and Ikem’s next political decision, both of which could influence developments within Cross River’s political landscape.
