On Monday, the Cross River state office of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) became the site of heated protests as party members rallied against the possible reinstatement of their former chairman, Venatius Ikem.
The demonstration, which included party officials from several local governments and wards in the state, reflected a deep divide within the party ranks over Ikem’s removal.
Carrying various signs with pointed messages, such as “Ikem must go” and “Reject Ikem’s return,” the protesters voiced their concerns about the leadership of the ousted chairman.
They warned that the reappointment of Ikem would lead to mass defections from the party.
Calabar Municipality’s chairman, Bassey Asuquo, who spearheaded the protest, argued that Ikem’s leadership had been a barrier to the party’s success and growth in the state.
Asuquo claimed that the removal was a step in the right direction, stating that the party’s future in Cross River was at stake. “If the national leadership chooses to bring Ikem back, many of us will leave,” he declared, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
Chief Dennis Nkiri, the deputy state chairman of the PDP, met with the protesters and reassured them that their concerns would be addressed.
He expressed confidence that decisions would be made to promote the party’s long-term success.
Meanwhile, Mike Ojisi, the party’s state Publicity Secretary, likened the party to a sinking ship, urging the removal of the “Jonah” causing it.
The dispute stems from the state working committee’s decision to remove Ikem two weeks ago over allegations of financial misconduct and poor management.
In response, Ikem has argued that his removal was unjust and unconstitutional, and he is exploring legal options to challenge the decision.
Despite his objections, the protestors remain firm in their stance, calling for his permanent removal to ensure the party’s growth and stability.
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