Mass defection looms in Cross River North

… as PDP Leaders Rally Behind Senator Jarigbe’s Move to APC

A major political shake-up is brewing in Cross River North Senatorial District as prominent stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prepare to defect en masse to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in solidarity with Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe.

Senator Jarigbe, who represents Cross River North in the National Assembly, had on October 22, 2025, formally notified President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of his defection to the APC during a visit to Aso Rock Villa. He later met with the APC State Chairman, Alphonsus Eba, in Calabar, pledging full cooperation with the party’s leadership to strengthen its presence in the zone.

Continuing his consultations, the senator convened a strategic meeting on Tuesday at Rockview Hotel, Abuja, with key PDP figures from the district to reassess the political climate and plan future steps.

His media aide, John Agom Agom, said discussions at the meeting revolved around aligning with the “progressive direction” of Governor Bassey Otu’s administration and President Tinubu’s reform-driven national agenda.

Speaking at the session, Senator Jarigbe said his move to the APC was inspired by a desire to contribute more effectively to the president’s vision for national renewal.

“My defection does not affect my commitment to my constituents,” he assured. “We will continue to pursue people-oriented projects and maintain regular consultations. Better days are ahead.”

Also in attendance, Cross River State PDP Chairman, Venatius Ikem, commended Jarigbe’s bold step and promised to brief the state executive council for further deliberations on the party’s next moves.

Participants reportedly agreed to formally join the APC after broader consultations, describing the planned defection as a “strategic realignment” aimed at securing a stronger voice for Cross River North in both state and national politics.

Among the notable figures at the meeting were Hon. Godwin Offiono, Chief Austin Edibe, Prof. Tom Ogar, Mike Aniah, Dr. Dorn-Klamz Enamhe, Dr. Paul Ibiala, and Hon. Peter Ignodor.

Meanwhile, former Labour Party Chairman in the state and PDP stalwart, Dr. Austin Ibok, has cautioned Senator Jarigbe against leaving the PDP, warning that the move to the APC may yield short-term benefits but could lead to long-term political regret.