Chief Austin Edibe Assumes Office as Cross River Acting PDP Chairman

Calabar, Cross River State – Chief Austin Edibe has assumed office as the Acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State.

Converseer reports that Chief Edibe was appointed Acting Chairman following the suspension of Venatius Ikem as the State Party Chairman on Friday.

Ikem was suspended by a 42-member State Executive Committee.

The leader of that PDP in the State, Senator Jarigbe Agom has welcomed the appointment of Chief Edibe as the State Acting Chairman of the party.

In his acceptance speech on Friday, November 15, 2024, Chief Edibe who hails from the Northern Senatorial District of the State, said he is deeply honoured and humbled to accept the responsibility of serving the party.

Chief Austin Edibe who was former Vice Chairmen (North) stated in his acceptance speech as follows:

“Distinguished leaders and members of our great Party, the People’s Democratic Party, Cross River State Chapter, Esteemed supporters, party faithful, and the good people of Cross River State,

“I stand before you today deeply honoured and humbled to accept the responsibility of serving as the Acting Chairman of our beloved Party. This new role is both a privilege and a call to duty, one that I take with utmost dedication and a firm resolve to lead our Party to greater heights.

“First, let me acknowledge the contributions of my predecessor, Barr. Venatius Ikem. Leadership comes with challenges, and while transitions are never easy, we must focus on moving forward as a united family. This moment calls for healing, reconciliation, and a renewed commitment to our shared ideals as the Peoples Democratic Party.

“The Peoples Democratic Party has always stood as a beacon of hope, progress, and inclusivity for the people of Cross River State. Despite the challenges of recent years, I assure you that our Party will bounce back stronger, just as Donald Trump and the Republican Party in the United States demonstrated resilience and revival. The PDP will regain its place of honour, not only in Cross River State but across Nigeria.

“To our esteemed members, I urge you to remain steadfast and resolute. This is not the time to waver or lose hope. It is the time to deepen our commitment to the vision and values that unite us as one big family. Let us set aside our differences and focus on the bigger picture – reclaiming the trust of our people and delivering good governance to Cross River State and beyond.

“To those who may have left our fold for one reason or another, I extend an open invitation to return home. The PDP remains the home of democrats, visionaries, and patriots committed to the prosperity of Cross River State and Nigeria. Your contributions are invaluable, and we need you now more than ever.

“To members of other political parties, I invite you to join hands with us. The PDP is a Party of inclusion, opportunity, and progress. Together, we can build a brighter future for Cross River State. In unity, there is strength, and I am confident that with your partnership, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve unparalleled success.

“As I step into this role, I promise to work tirelessly to strengthen our Party’s structures, re-energise our grassroots mobilisation efforts, and rebuild the trust and confidence of the people in the PDP. I will lead with fairness, transparency, and a commitment to excellence.

“Together, we will chart a new course for our Party and our state. Together, we will win back the hearts of the people. Together, we will reclaim our rightful place as the leading political force in Cross River State.

“Let us roll up our sleeves and get to work. The journey ahead will not be easy, but with faith, determination, and unity, we will succeed.

“Long live the People’s Democratic Party!
Long live Cross River State!
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

“Thank you, and God bless you all.”