PDP Cross River Congress Holds Under Tight Security

The Peoples Democratic Party held its state congress in Cross River on Saturday under a heavy security presence.

The event took place at the Venetian Arena in Calabar, where more than 1,000 delegates gathered for the exercise. Security operatives were stationed around the venue to ensure order as proceedings began.

The congress came just days after the party’s National Working Committee announced a postponement and dissolved the state working committee, citing the end of its tenure. However, the state leadership under Venatius Ikem dismissed the decision and insisted the congress would proceed as scheduled.

Delegates from all 18 local government areas of the state attended the event, which was declared open by Hon. Jones Chukwudi, chairman of the electoral panel. He led a seven-member team and assured participants that the process would remain transparent and credible throughout.

Party officials explained that while a harmonized list of candidates had already been prepared, voting would still take place in line with party rules. Delegates were informed that ballot papers and result sheets would be presented before the exercise to demonstrate that the materials were authentic and untampered.

Ahead of voting, committee secretary Hon. TJ Yusuf urged aspirants and supporters to maintain peace and approach the congress as a collective effort rather than a rivalry. He appealed to members to remain united, noting that contests were part of the political process but must not create divisions.

As accreditation continued, party leaders prepared to address delegates and set the tone for the day’s activities. The congress was expected to end within hours, with officials expressing hope that the exercise would strengthen unity within the PDP in Cross River as it looks ahead to future elections.