Former Cross River State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Venatius Ikem, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC)
Ikem, who was PDP national publicity secretary, announced his decision at a defection rally in Obudu Local Government Area, said he was impressed by the reception he received from APC leaders and members since leaving the opposition party
Ikem said political disagreements should not be allowed to damage relationships among family members, friends and community leaders
“APC and PDP and all other political parties are not bad parties It is we, the people, who are bad. Do not fight your brother over politics,” he said.
The former PDP chairman resigned from the party about two weeks ago, citing internal divisions, lack of clear direction and leadership incoherence He also questioned the rationale behind the party’s Rainbow Coalition.
Ikem thanked Otu, the governor’s Chief of Staff, Dr Emmanuel Ironbar, and other APC leaders for facilitating his return to the ruling party He said the defection offered an opportunity to rebuild political relationships and promote development in Obudu.
An APC stakeholder from Ogoja, Ntufam Emmanuel Monjok, described Ikem’s defection as a setback for the PDP in the northern senatorial district, while another stakeholder, Ekpenyong Ekpenyong, from Calabar South, said the move could reduce political tensions in the area
However, the PDP has said Ikem’s resignation would not affect its stability or electoral prospects