By Frank Ulom
Comrade Spera Butum, the Labour Party candidate for the Cross River State House of Assembly in Yakurr 1 State Constituency, has withdrawn from the 2027 race and declared support for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, James Ibor, Esq.
Butum announced his decision in a statement titled “A Message of Withdrawal, Unity and Support”, dated September 2, 2026, and made available to Converseer.
He said the decision followed “careful reflection, extensive consultations, and deep consideration of the prevailing political realities”, stressing that it was made in the interest of the constituency.
According to him, leadership should not always be driven by personal ambition, but should prioritise the collective interests of the people.
“Sometimes, it is about putting the collective interest of our people above individual aspirations and making decisions that promote unity, progress and a better future for our constituency,” he said.
Following his withdrawal, Butum formally endorsed Ibor, saying he was prepared to work with stakeholders, supporters and constituents towards what he described as purposeful leadership and effective representation for Yakurr 1.
“I believe that our constituency needs a representative who will provide purposeful leadership, effective representation and a strong voice for the people,” he said.
Butum also appealed to his supporters and associates to respect his decision and support what he described as a peaceful, united and progressive political direction for the constituency.
He assured his supporters that his withdrawal from the contest did not mean abandoning the issues and aspirations that informed his political participation.
“You have not lost me, and I have not abandoned the cause we believe in. Our commitment to the development and advancement of Yakurr 1 remains firm,” he said.
The now former Labour Party candidate described politics as a journey in which every chapter provides an opportunity to learn, build relationships and serve the people.
He congratulated Ibor on his candidacy and wished him success, while urging constituents to place the interest of Yakurr 1 above individual political ambitions.
“For me, the interest of our people comes first,” Butum stated.
The development comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with parties and aspirants positioning themselves for elective positions across Cross River State.
Butum’s decision to withdraw and publicly back the PDP candidate is expected to add a new dimension to the political contest in Yakurr 1 State Constituency.