Cross River PDP re-elects Venatius Ikem as chairman, 38 others elected

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has re-elected Barr. Venatius Ikem as its chairman for a second four-year term.

Ikem was returned alongside 38 other State Executive Committee members during the party’s congress held on September 27, 2025, at the Venetian Arena, Calabar.

The congress was monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Johnson Alalibo Sinikem, and representatives of security agencies including the Police, NSCDC, and DSS.

Chairman of the Electoral Panel, Hon. Jones Chukwudi, announced Ikem’s victory with 1,541 votes and confirmed the election of the other exco members.

In his acceptance speech, Ikem pledged to rebuild the party and strengthen its structures ahead of future elections, promising to address past challenges and unify members.

Prominent PDP leaders, including Senator Sandy Onor and Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, praised the process for its transparency and adherence to guidelines.

They urged the new leadership to prioritize reconciliation and teamwork as the party prepares for the 2027 elections.

Other party stakeholders present included former Deputy Governor Barr. Efiok Cobham, former governorship aspirant Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, and several serving and former lawmakers.