The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suffered a significant loss in Calabar Municipality. Key members from Ward 8 let by the Ward Chairman, Mr Ekpezu have submitted their resignation letters, and announced their defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). These resignations, dated from late 2025 to January 2026 semblance of what happened in Ward 5 point to growing unrest, transactional politics and no direction within the party.
The letters reveal deep dissatisfaction. Mr. Okafor Chiedu C., in his August 6, 2025, resignation, cited “irreconcilable differences from the two factions of the party” as harmful to growth and peaceful coexistence. He confirmed his move to the ADC. Similarly, Anthony Okon Akiba, Ward 8 Secretary, resigned on January 18, 2026, highlighting “multiple party conflicts and court cases at national and state levels.” He also plans to join the ADC.
Other members expressed similar views without naming a new party. Hon. Charles Okon Effiom, in a December 20, 2025, letter, stated it was time for a “political move to another party” due to internal issues. Mrs. Elizabeth Idem, Ward Women Leader, resigned on January 23, 2026, to focus on private business.
Prince Essien Edem, Organizing Secretary, and Friday Samuel, Chapter Organizing Secretary, both resigned on January 20, 2026, offering thanks and best wishes without criticism.
Additional resignations came from Daniel Okokon Effiong, Mrs. Chika Blessings, Engr. Sanusi Ahmed Akpa, Akoma Believe, Lawrence Oqua Oqua (Vice Chairman), Nsikak Monday Udo, Saviour Okokon, Akiba Theresa Okon (Chapter Woman Leader), Akabom Ita Essien Offiong (Auditor), and Samson Ekan Frank and also Mr Lawrence Iso,(Fmr. Chapter Rep and Councilorship candidate in the last LG election resigned too.
This wave affects the entire Ward 8 executive committee. The timing suggests a possible coordinated effort by an emerging political force in the Local Government Area.
The trend extends beyond Ward 8. On January 22, 2026, all party leaders in Ward 5 Calabar Municipal also resigned from the PDP and defected to the ADC, intensifying the crisis.
More details will follow as they emerge.
Cross River Hub Reporting
