The political landscape in Cross River State is heating up as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gears up for its state chairmanship election slated for September 27, 2025. A power struggle is brewing, with the influence of the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, becoming a central point of contention. Venatius Ikem, the current PDP chairman in Cross River, has vehemently rejected the notion that Wike holds sway over the party’s internal affairs, particularly the selection of its next leader. This declaration follows a series of pronouncements by various PDP caucuses within the state, expressing their disapproval of Wike’s alleged meddling and solidifying their positions for the upcoming election.
The controversy ignited with a meeting held in Abuja by a faction of the Cross River PDP believed to be loyal to Wike. This group advocated for an extension of Ikem’s tenure as chairman, a proposition that was met with immediate resistance from other party members. The Cross River South Senatorial District PDP caucus, in a strong rebuke of the Abuja meeting, issued a communiqué asserting that Wike’s faction would not dictate the choice of the next state chairman. They condemned the attempt to prolong Ikem’s leadership, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established party procedures for leadership transitions.
The discontent spread to the Central Senatorial District caucus, which further underscored the growing opposition to Wike’s perceived interference. This caucus not only criticized Wike’s involvement but also questioned his loyalty to the PDP, suggesting his actions aligned more with those of a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Adding fuel to the fire, the Central caucus openly endorsed Tim Ekawu, a prominent party figure, as their preferred candidate for the chairmanship election, effectively drawing a line in the sand and challenging Wike’s influence.
Ikem, in an effort to quell the escalating tensions, addressed the issue head-on, dismissing any speculation that Wike could manipulate the party’s internal processes. He reiterated that the PDP in Cross River State operates under established rules and procedures, and these guidelines, not external influence, would determine the next chairman. He emphasized that Wike, being an outsider from a different state, has no authority to impose decisions on the Cross River PDP. Ikem’s unequivocal stance underscores the importance of respecting the state chapter’s autonomy and its right to conduct its affairs without undue external pressure.
The unfolding events within the Cross River PDP highlight a broader struggle for control and influence within the party. The resistance to Wike’s alleged interference reveals underlying tensions and factionalism that could significantly impact the party’s cohesion and electoral prospects. The upcoming chairmanship election is shaping up to be a key battleground in this power struggle, with the outcome likely to have long-term implications for the party’s direction in the state. The differing viewpoints and the open defiance of Wike’s presumed influence signal a potential rift within the party, raising questions about its ability to present a united front in future elections.
The situation in Cross River State serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges facing the PDP nationally. The party is grappling with internal divisions and power struggles as it seeks to rebuild and regain its footing in the political landscape. The outcome of the Cross River state chairmanship election will be a significant indicator of the strength and direction of these internal dynamics, potentially setting the stage for future power plays within the party on both a state and national level. The ability of the PDP to resolve these internal conflicts and present a unified front will be crucial for its success in upcoming elections and its long-term viability as a major political force.
