PDP voids Ikem’s suspension; Affirms him as State Chairman of the party

The  Peoples Democratic Party National Working Committee (NWC) has declared null and void the suspension of Barrister Venatus Ikem, the Chairman of the party in Cross River State.

Recall that the PDP in Cross River State has been engulfed with internal crisis that led to the suspension of the state chairman by a faction of aggrieved party members.

In a twist of event, the NWC in a press release addressed to the said suspended chairman, Venatus Ikem dated February 27th, 2025, recognized him as the substantive state chairman.

The release signed and made available by the National Organizing Secretary, Honorable Umar Bature, said the NWC has directed him to continue exercising his constitutional duty and directing that another meeting with critical stakeholders in the state be scheduled.

“Following the meeting of the NWC and Cross River Stakeholders held on December 12, 2024, and the Press Statement released by our Party’s Publicity Department on the 20th of November 2024 where the leadership of our Party dismissed your purported suspension by your State Working Committee; the NWC directed that you continue to exercise your constitutional duties as State Chairman and further directs that another meeting with the critical stakeholders in Cross River be scheduled.”

Ikem is also directed to continue his reconciliatory effort with the view of bringing a lasting solution to the lingering crisis of the party in the State.

“It is on the strength of these that I wish to officially communicate to you that, having violated Section 59(3) of the Constitution of the Peoples Democratic Party (2017 as amended), the suspension is null and void and of no effect. Please note that we shall schedule another consultative meeting with your stakeholders within the coming weeks.

“While thanking you for your commitment and dedication to our Party, please accept the assurances of the NWCs highest regards.”

By: Archibong Emmanuel

(Snr. Reporter)