Drama Unfolds at PDP Secretariat as Members Protest Against Alleged Plan to Reinstate Removed Chairman
A heated standoff has erupted at the Cross River State secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as members converged to protest against the supposed plan to reinstate Venatius Ikem, the ousted state chairman. Ikem was removed just two weeks ago over concerns of financial mismanagement, authoritarianism, and inefficiency.
However, Ikem has disputed his removal, labeling it unconstitutional and hinting at legal action to challenge the decision.
The protesters, comprising members from wards and local government chapters across the state, brandished signs bearing messages such as “Ikem Must Go,” “All Wards and Local Governments Reject Vena,” and “The Decision of the SWC is the Best for the Party.”
Led by Calabar Municipality Chairman Mr. Bassey Asuquo, the protesters maintained that Ikem’s removal is essential for the party’s progress and growth.
The group issued a stern warning, vowing to abandon the party en masse if Ikem is reinstated. They claimed his leadership has bred divisions within the party and threatened to leave if things don’t change.
Asuquo emphasized, “As chapter leaders across the state, we support any move, including the removal of anyone, that will boost the party’s growth.
If Ikem is not removed, we will be forced to leave the party for the good of the PDP in Cross River.
Chief Dennis Nkiri, deputy state chairman, received the protesters and assured them that the party will prioritize growth over personal interests.
Similarly, State Publicity Secretary Mr. Mike Ojisi quipped, “We need to remove Ikem from the boat before it sinks.”
