Venatius Ikem, the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, has resigned with immediate effect, citing a "crisis of direction and leadership coherence" within the party. The resignation, reported by Vanguard on Friday, October 16, 2026, comes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Resignation Letter and Immediate Context
Ikem, a lawyer from Obudu, addressed his resignation letter to the party's National Secretary at Wadata House in Abuja, with a copy sent to the Cross River State Secretary. In the letter, he stated he could "no longer effectively serve in this position" under conditions that "increasingly challenge the principles, cohesion, and sense of purpose" of the party.
Describing the choice as "exceptionally difficult" but one arrived at after "deep introspection," Ikem pointed to internal dynamics that made it increasingly hard to align his duties with the direction leadership was taking. According to Leadership, he wrote: "As we enter a critical electoral season, I have found it increasingly difficult to reconcile my responsibilities as State Chairman with the prevailing internal dynamics and divergent positions that continue to weaken the party's ability to pursue a clear and united course."
Party Divisions and Future Direction
Ikem did not name specific individuals or factions he blamed for the divisions, nor did he reveal where his political loyalties would shift following his exit. However, he signalled a change in direction, saying he had reached "a moment where a clearer vision and a new pathway are necessary, both for myself and for those who have entrusted me with their confidence."
He warned that unresolved tensions had "significantly diminished the effectiveness of the Party" and, if left unaddressed, risked eroding the contributions of dedicated members across the state. The outgoing chairman hinted at a new political direction without naming the individuals or factions he held responsible.
Gratitude and Acknowledgment
Despite his frustrations, Ikem used the letter to express gratitude for the five years he spent leading the party in Cross River State, calling it "a privilege to work with dedicated leaders, members, and supporters." He specifically recognised Senator (Prof.) Sandy Onor and Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe for their support during difficult stretches of his tenure.
He also acknowledged Nyesom Wike, the party's national leader and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, saying his contributions to the party's collective work "remains indelible and worthy of recognition." The people of Obudu, his home constituency, also received a special mention for their "unwavering faith, loyalty, and commitment over the years."
"As I step away from this position, I remain committed to the progress, stability, and development of Cross River State and our nation," he said, wishing the PDP "every success in its future endeavours."
Impact on PDP in Cross River
His departure leaves a leadership gap in the party's Cross River structure with elections approaching, adding to growing uncertainty about the party's footing in the state. Earlier, Legit.ng reported that ahead of the 2027 elections, Wike asked the PDP to respect the court's judgments on the party's national convention. The PDP chieftain spoke in an interview on Channels Television's 'Politics Today', monitored by Legit.ng.
