According to a report by Punch news on Monday, 01, 07, 2024, Venatius Ikem Esq, the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, expressed deep regret over the party's failure to secure victory in the 2023 governorship election. He attributed this setback to internal conflicts and disunity within the party ranks.
Speaking at a stakeholders meeting held at the Metropolitan Hotel in Calabar on Sunday, Ikem emphasized that the PDP's divided internal structure significantly contributed to its electoral losses, including key positions.
"We went into the election with a divided house, and a divided house cannot stand. As a party, we have previously enjoyed unprecedented success and took that success for granted," Ikem remarked.
Acknowledging his responsibility for the election outcome, Ikem pledged a revitalization of the party, aiming to address internal issues and reposition the PDP for future elections.
"We are committed to restructuring our party. We need to move past personal interests and overcome our challenges through dialogue and unity," he asserted optimistically. "Despite setbacks, there remains a strong grassroots support for the PDP, and we are determined to make a comeback."
Senator Jarigbe Jarigbe, representing Cross River North senatorial district, commended party stakeholders for their steadfastness despite adversities. He emphasized that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is not immune to errors and urged the PDP to capitalize on any mistakes made by the APC.
"I appreciate the dedication of our party members. We must remain resilient because change is inevitable," Senator Jarigbe affirmed. "The APC's ascension was partly due to our missteps, but they too are fallible. They will make mistakes, and we must be prepared to seize opportunities."
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Sandy Onor, the PDP governorship candidate in the 2023 election, encouraged party loyalists not to be disheartened by the losses suffered in the previous governorship election. He assured them of the party's resurgence.
"Despite setbacks, we are resilient. The PDP will bounce back stronger," Onor affirmed, rallying support from the party faithful.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from PDP leaders to unity, strategic planning, and grassroots mobilization as they prepare for future electoral challenges.