By Cletus Asuquo
A former governorship aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Mkpang Coco-Bassey, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Cross River State under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Coco-Bassey made the declaration on Thursday at Ward 11, Essien Street, Calabar South Local Government Area, where he also formally registered as a member of the party.
Speaking at the event, the governorship hopeful said his decision to join the ADC followed his loss of confidence in existing political platforms, noting that the party represents a viable alternative capable of restoring hope and good governance.
“I officially resigned from the PDP on February 12 to join the ADC. We have lost hope in other political parties, and ADC has come as a platform to give Nigerians renewed hope,” he said.
Coco-Bassey, who previously sought the governorship ticket under the PDP, said he was re-entering the race with a development blueprint tagged “AHEAD,” which he described as a roadmap for transforming the state.
Explaining the concept, he said “A” represents action, stressing that his administration would prioritise practical governance over rhetoric. According to him, “H” stands for hope, which he said has diminished among citizens due to poor governance.
He added that the second “A” signifies empowerment, which he described as sustainable and development-driven, rather than token handouts.
“I am not talking about giving out items as empowerment. I believe in equipping people with skills and opportunities that will enable them to fend for themselves,” he stated.
Coco-Bassey further said “E” represents elevation, drawing from his professional background in the oil and gas sector, where he has spent over 15 years, while “D” stands for development across key sectors, including health, agriculture, and youth advancement.
The 48-year-old aspirant called on young people in the state to actively participate in politics, urging them to take up leadership roles.
“If young people do not step forward, leadership will be left in the hands of those who may not have the capacity. I want to encourage youths across the 18 local government areas to get involved,” he said.
He also criticised the state of infrastructure in parts of Cross River, citing prolonged power outages in some communities as evidence of governance gaps.
Speaking on the chances of the ADC in the 2027 election, Coco-Bassey dismissed concerns about the party’s strength, insisting that it would provide stiff competition at the polls.
Also speaking, State coordinator, Electoral matters, Dr Maurice Ekong expressed confidence in the ADC’s growing influence, stating that recent developments indicate a shift in the political landscape.
He alleged that the party had faced intimidation in the course of its activities but remained resolute.
According to him, “There is going to be a paradigm shift in this country. ADC is determined and will emerge stronger despite all challenges.”
Party stakeholders at the event reiterated their support for Coco-Bassey’s ambition, expressing optimism that the ADC would make a significant impact in the state’s political space ahead of the 2027 elections.
The event was attended by Ikpoanwan Ayi ADC Ward 11 Chairman, and Umoh Williams ADC Chapter Chairman, Calabar South among other party stakeholders.
