The crisis rocking the Cross River State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a new turn after the State Executive Committee (SEC) insists that the suspension of the State Chairman, Barr. Venatius Ikem, remains in effect until a scheduled meeting with the National Working Committee (NWC) and key stakeholders is convened.
The State Secretary, Anthony Edako, in a press statement issued in Calabar and signed by the party declared that any attempt to reinstate the suspended chairman without the input of the NWC and stakeholders is invalid.
The statement reads, “We are aware of a letter circulating on social media, allegedly written by the National Organizing Secretary, reinstating the suspended State Chairman of our Party. Let it be clear that this letter is null and void, as it did not come from the proper authority within the party.
“For the record, only the National Chairman and National Secretary are empowered to issue such a letter, and if the communication is meant for public notice, it is the duty of the National Publicity Secretary to do so.
“The National Organizing Secretary clearly overstepped his boundaries, and his actions are considered ultra vires.”
The SEC explained that the NWC had previously dismissed an initial suspension of Venatius Ikem on November 20, 2024, which had been imposed on November 15, 2024. However, following this, the State Executive Committee, acting on the recommendation of its Disciplinary Committee, suspended Ikem again on November 22, 2024, and communicated this to the national leadership.
According to the statement, the NWC then invited the State Executive Committee for a meeting, during which it was unanimously agreed that the NWC would hold further consultations with Cross River stakeholders to decide Ikem’s fate.
“The crucial meeting between the NWC and stakeholders from Cross River State has not yet taken place,” the statement added. “Until this meeting is held, any decision to reinstate the suspended chairman is both premature and invalid.”
The party urged members and stakeholders to disregard the letter reinstating Ikem, emphasizing that only a joint decision from the NWC and stakeholders would determine the chairman’s position.
“Any claims or announcements about his reinstatement without the scheduled meeting are baseless,” the statement concluded. “We remain resolute and will not allow unauthorized actions to undermine the party’s leadership. Let us stay united and focused on our collective goals.”
The crisis highlights ongoing internal struggles within the Cross River PDP as the party works to maintain order and unity ahead of crucial political engagements.