UNICAL VC Selection: Crisis Looms As Allegations of Manipulation Sparks Outrage

Prof. Florence Obi, VC UNICAL 

Our Reporter | 6th May 2025

CALABAR —A fresh storm is brewing at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) as the process of appointing a new Vice Chancellor has unravel allegations of manipulation, imposition, and power play, which has been widely perceived as a strategic move to sideline top contenders and tilt the race in favor of a preferred candidate, which has ignited sharp divisions within the university community.

A simmering conflict between the University's Governing Council  and the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Prof. Florence Obi, threatens to derail the transition.

Credible findings from our sources, indicate a sharp disagreement between the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, retired DIG Udom Ekpoudom, and the incumbent Vice Chancellor, over the sudden introduction of a new eligibility criterion: a mandatory 10-year post-professorial experience for candidates seeking to become Vice Chancellor.

Other sources within the University reveal that this controversial benchmark was allegedly proposed to eliminate strong contenders perceived as threats to a preferred candidate. 

Notably, this criterion has no uniform precedence in UNICAL's history.

 In past appointments, including that of the current Vice Chancellor herself, the requirement ranged between five and nine years of post-professorial experience.

Observers point to this inconsistency as a clear sign that the new 10-year benchmark is arbitrary, discriminatory, and tailored to favor certain individuals while excluding others who are equally or more qualified. 

"It is unfair and legally questionable," a top official from the Federal Ministry of Education disclosed, adding that the Ministry did not issue or support any such directive.

In yet another development breeding discontent, some contenders have made claims about a not so subtle attempt to zone the VC ship in an attempt to mimic political arrangements. 

A visibly disturbed source who preferred to remain anonymous pointed out that "zoning" is yet another hurdle being placed to eliminate credible and well qualified candidates from the race in a federal university. 

These developments have sparked deep concern within the University community.

 Several members of the Governing Council, caught unawares by the proposed changes, have distanced themselves from it and reported the matter to the Federal Ministry of Education. 

In response, the Pro-Chancellor has reportedly dissociated himself from the Vice Chancellor's maneuverings and re-assured stakeholders of his commitment to due process and fairness.

The tenure of Prof. Florence Obi ends in November 2025, with the appointment of a new Vice Chancellor expected to take place in September.

However, unless the Council acts decisively to maintain the integrity of the selection process, the university may be plunged into legal battles that could stall the appointment indefinitely.

Across Nigeria's first-generation universities, the average post-professorial benchmark for VC appointments ranges from six to eight years. UNICAL's imposition of a 10-year cut-off, without a clear justification or precedent, is therefore not only irregular but susceptible to legal challenge.

Stakeholders are now calling for a return to the status quo—retaining the previous maximum requirement of nine years or below—as the only way to ensure a credible and inclusive process. Anything short of this risks widening the rift between the Council and the University Management, and exposing the institution to avoidable litigation that could paralyze its operations.

The eyes of the academic community are watching. UNICAL must rise above personal interests and uphold the principles of merit, transparency, and fairness in this critical moment. 

Group Honors CRISSAA Boss for Humanitarian Activities

Ukorebi  Esien | 29th April 2025

CALABAR— The Director General of the Cross River State Signage and Advertisement Agency (CRISSAA), Mr. Ubong Sam, has been honored by the Hope Ability Empowerment Initiative (HAEI) for his outstanding humanitarian contributions and consistent support for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The recognition came during a brief but heartfelt ceremony where Mr. Sam was praised for his quiet acts of generosity and commitment to the welfare of vulnerable groups. Often described as a "secret giver" and a man with a heart of gold, Mr. Sam's efforts have not gone unnoticed by the community.

Presenting the award, the Executive Director of HAEI, Dr. (Mrs.) Martina Ongbonya Ntino, commended Mr. Sam for his humility, accessibility, and unwavering dedication to service.

"Mr. Ubong Sam is someone who never hesitates to help, no matter the time or circumstance. His compassion, especially toward persons with disabilities, is evident in his actions and impact," she stated.

In his response, the Head of Information at CRISSAA described the award as a collective achievement, noting that Mr. Sam's leadership has transformed the agency for the better. "Since his appointment, the agency has taken on a more humane and inclusive approach to its operations," he said.

Mr. Sam, visibly moved by the recognition, expressed gratitude and reaffirmed his commitment to humanitarian causes. "I am deeply humbled by this award. Everything I do is for the good of humanity. I'm glad that my efforts are making a difference, and I promise to do even more," he said.

#DisabilityInclusion #HopeAbility #Philanthropy #HeroAmongUs

Eight Feared Dead in Fatal Crash on Nteje-Awka Road

The accident Scene along Nteje-Awka Road

By Ukpa Ewa  | 29th April 2025

AWKA — Tragic road accident has claimed the lives of eight individuals along the Nteje-Awka route, near the New Terminal close to Ukpo Junction, as confirmed by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Anambra Sector Command.

The accident occurred around 9:00 PM on April 27, involving a Mack tanker without a license plate and a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number EKP375XM. According to preliminary reports and eyewitness accounts, the bus, traveling from Abakaliki to Onitsha, was attempting a dangerous overtaking maneuver at high speed when it collided head-on with the tanker traveling in the opposite direction on the narrow, single-lane road.

The crash resulted in the deaths of eight passengers—four men and four women—and left six others injured, including two men and four women. The FRSC rescue team from RS5.33 Nteje responded swiftly, evacuating the injured to Regina Caeli Hospital and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital. The deceased were taken to Jerusalem Mortuary, Nteje, after being confirmed dead by a medical professional.

In a press release, the Sector Commander, Corps Commander Joyce Nnennaya Alexander, extended her condolences to the bereaved families and urged all road users to drive responsibly. "Drivers must ensure they drive at a minimum safe speed and only overtake when the road is clear," she cautioned.

Following the incident , the Commander Alexander visited the crash site, the injured victims at the hospitals, and inspected the wreckage at the Nteje Police Station. She also met with the Chief of Taskforce of National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) as part of efforts to coordinate a more robust response to road safety concerns.

The FRSC emphasized its commitment to intensifying road safety education and enforcing traffic laws;pledging  to work closely with stakeholders to enhance safety measures and prevent future tragedies on Anambra roads.

As investigations continue, authorities urge all drivers to exercise caution, particularly on single-carriageway roads where overtaking can be perilously deceptive.

Also, the Sector Public Education Officer RC Margaret  Onabe reaffirmed the command dedication to reducing road fatalities and promoting safer driving practices across the state.

"Days of the Jackals: A Clarion Call to the Electorates of Cross River North

Dr. Paul Udayi 

By Dr. Paul Udayi  | 29th April 2025

OBUDU — As the political drums begin their thunderous roll towards the 2027 general elections, I, Paul Udayi, find it both a solemn duty and a sacred obligation to speak to my compatriots of Cross River North. We stand once again at the crossroads of destiny, and it is incumbent upon us to rouse ourselves from slumber and face the realities that have long plagued our polity.

We are witnessing what can only be termed the days of the jackals—a season wherein political scavengers, emboldened by years of unmerited entrenchment, roam the landscape with a grotesque sense of entitlement. These political mandarins, having ensconced themselves in the echelons of power for what seems an interminable era, now parade themselves with the hauteur of demi-gods, believing that political office is their birthright and the masses mere serfs at their beck and call.

This lamentable reality must now be met with righteous indignation. We must summon these self-anointed barons to the court of public accountability. The era of political handouts—those paltry alms tossed to the masses with a sneer of condescension—is over. No longer shall we accept the psychological abuse wherein the legitimate expectations of good governance are portrayed as rare favours, dispensed only to the politically loyal or the spiritually broken.

The time has come for a new ethos: henceforth, anyone—especially those seasoned veterans who have fed fat on the commonwealth—aspiring to any office must render a full, detailed, and verifiable account of their stewardship. They must, with unerring precision and incontestable evidence, disclose the quality and quantity of their contributions to the common good. Flowery rhetoric, vague promises, and empty platitudes will no longer suffice to beguile a discerning populace.

I solemnly admonish every citizen: be not seduced by the ephemeral trinkets and tokens that politicians hurl like crumbs before hungry subjects. These so-called "gifts" are nothing but Greek wooden horses, laced with treachery, designed to breach the citadel of our collective wisdom—much like the doomed city of Troy. Such blandishments are a calculated insult to our sensibilities and a means to enthrone the giver as a demi-god, while the people are reduced to vassals.

At this critical juncture, we must rise as sentinels of our own destiny. We must be wiser, more vigilant, and unyieldingly proactive. We must reject the beguiling wiles of seasoned deceivers who come cloaked in ephemeral generosity yet bear no record of genuine service. Let us sharpen our discernment, fortify our collective resolve, and at the appointed hour, use the sacred ballot box as an altar of justice, where betrayal is punished and true stewardship rewarded.

Let it be known far and wide: the days when politicians bestride our land like colossi, unchallenged and unrepentant, are drawing swiftly to a close. A new dawn beckons—a season wherein only those who can account for every iota of their stewardship with integrity and transparency shall be deemed worthy of the people's trust.

The jackals may roam for a season, but the reckoning is at hand.

Dr. Paul Udayi is a Real Estate Developer and Politician. He's a one time Governorship Aspirant on the platform of the People's Democratic Party

2027: ‘No Vacancy’ in Central Senatorial Seat, Yakurr Stakeholders Endorse Eteng Williams for Second Term

In a bold political statement ahead of the 2027 general elections, Ward Leaders, Women, Youths and Stakeholders across the 13 wards of Yakurr Local Government Area have unanimously declared that there is "no vacancy" in the Cross River Central Senatorial seat, endorsing Senator Eteng Jonah Williams for a second term in recognition of his impactful representation and ongoing developmental strides.

The endorsement, which took place at a stakeholders' breakfast meeting with the Senator held at Mkpani on Sunday, was attended by Honourable members representing Yakurr I and II State Constituencies, Hon. Cyril Omin and Hon. Mercy Akpama respectively, the Council Chairman, Hon. Yibala Inyang, councillors, State and LG appointees, the State Treasurer of APC, chapter chairman and 13 ward executives, and top party chieftains including Johnson Ugbor.

Declaring the meeting open, the chairman of the forum, Mr. Johnson Ugbor, said: "Politics is not about abuse and insults. It is about what you can attract to your people. Our Senator is a good person, and he has attracted some projects to us. All we need now is to pray and work for those representing us so that when it is your turn, another person will work for you."

Speaking at the event, Hon. Yibala Inyang, Yakurr Council Chairman, said all the fighting being heard is a distraction.

He stated, "Senator Eteng Williams has barely spent two years in office, and people are already stirring problems. Politics is about showing results, and what the Senator is doing now is the right approach. The Governor has not declared that elections have commenced nor has he endorsed anyone. This is a time for governance, so don't let anyone mislead you."

Furthermore, a motion for the adoption of Sen. Eteng Williams was moved by Hon. Mercy Akpama (Yakurr II State Constituency) and seconded by Hon. Cyril Omin (Yakurr I State Constituency), Speaking after the adoption, Hon. Mercy Akpama said: "All the five council wards in Yakurr II have decided to stand with their son. Ikom supported their son and he served for 12 years. So why can't we achieve the same for Sen. Eteng Williams? It is time for the Central to support a Yakurr son."

Also, Mr. Eton Eyong from Idomi Ward said: "Idomi stands with Senator Eteng. We just want the Senator to support us and take us to the promised land. Even if he runs a third time, the people of Idomi will support him."

Chief Ebali Brown from Ijiman Ward stated: "Politics is like food and everyone wants a share. People are fighting because the tree bears fruit. Continue the empowerment and work with politicians who have influence in their communities."

From Bikobiko Ward, Hon. Adolphius said: "The Senator should not be distracted. The person causing problems is from my ward, but he does not represent us. We are the grassroots, and we are with you. Please work with us, we are the ones who will deliver you."

Engr. Matthew Bassey from Ijom Ward said: "We've seen your impact in Ijom, and we are with you. You won all elections here, and we'll continue to support you. We are not bothered by what others say, Ijom is for you."

Mr. Cyril Itam from Ikpakapi Ward and a former SUBEB secretary said: "We've been neglected when it comes to appointments. Please come to our aid. We have no roads or electricity."

Chief Otabe Leko, State NULGE Chairman from Nko Ward, said: "Many people have worked and deserve to be acknowledged. This meeting is important, it shows a sense of belonging."

Hon. John Bassey from Ajere Ward said: "We already have the Council Chairman and we're satisfied with that. But the Senator should help build a structure for the school."

Hansome Offem Ubi from Ekori Ward added: "Politics is about going out to vote and bringing something home for your people. Even though you didn't win Ekori, you got meaningful votes in every polling unit. Politics isn't church, there will always be opposing views. Focus and work with the people, and we will deliver our polling units during elections."

Mr. Nnanna Abam from Epenti Ward said: "We control over 80% of the votes. If you give us a road, we'll give you 100% in 2027."

Elder Willy Akpama from Nkpolo Ward said: "We are APC and we appreciate all you've done for us. We have some political appointees, and we're working to strengthen the party for the next elections."

Tony Ekereke from Iyima Ward said: "We have no one speaking for us, and that's not right. Please look into our situation. Our school lacks staff. Kindly reach out to the Ministry of Education to help us and appoint someone who can speak for us in your absence."

Retired school Principal, Mark Osogi from Assiga Ward said: "We're grateful for this meeting. APC has no issues in Assiga, whatever our leaders say, we follow. We proved that in the 2023 elections. We need help with the Ekori–Assiga road."

Okoi Abam from Mkpani-Agoi Ward said: "In 32 years, we've never had a meeting like this. We're grateful. A Yakurr son shouldn't be removed after one term. Old Ikom had this position for over 24 years before it came to Old Obubra. It's our turn now, and we won't let it go. We want a ranking Senator."

Commending the convener, the chairman of ward chairmen in Yakurr APC, John Ikpi Okon, said: "We appreciate the Senator for bringing people together for this meeting. Please do this regularly. We commend you for the development you've brought to Yakurr. All the ward chairmen have passed a vote of confidence in Senator Eteng Jonah Williams for 2027."

Speaking on behalf of the women's group, Ms. Rita Ogar Oden said: "We thank our leaders for their continued support for women in Constituencies I and II. We are proud and ready to mobilize when the time comes. We reject politics of bitterness and hatred. We also need a bus to help us move around. There is no vacancy in 2027."

In his response, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams thanked the people of Yakurr for celebrating Easter with him at his residence.

"This is a time to touch lives and thank God. I may not be able to address every challenge, but I will do my best. The Ekori Road project will soon commence under the NDDC, and within two years, we hope to have resolved about 70% of your concerns."

"It's not about what you lack, but your loyalty to the party. Whatever is due to you will reach you. I don't make noise—I know what to do."

"This time, politics is different. It's the first time members of the same party are fighting each other. Every Yakurr person is my brother or sister. I'll continue working for everyone to ensure our communities benefit from democratic dividends."

"The Yakurr people have never worn the Senate cap in the National Assembly until now. Let's protect it and use it to improve our lives."

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to scholarships, human capital development, and infrastructural growth, noting: "Our Governor, Bassey Otu, loves Yakurr and is doing everything to empower us. I've heard you all, and my team and I will work harder to better the lives of our constituents."

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Israel Bolarinwa Emerges 2025 National Champion at Young Orators Competition

 Ukorebi Esien  | April 20th, 2025

IBADAN — Israel Bolarinwa, a 100-level Education student from the University of Ibadan, has been crowned the 2025 National Champion of The Young Orators Public Speaking Competition.

The competition, held in Ibadan, brought together 15 young speakers from across Nigeria for a week-long camp featuring intensive training and mentorship. Following the semi-final rounds, eight finalists advanced to the national stage on April 5, where Bolarinwa emerged as the overall winner. He will represent Nigeria at the International Public Speaking Competition scheduled for May 12–17, 2025.

The annual event is organized by the Peat Philips Foundation in collaboration with the Youth Development Agency and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs. Akinleye Olu-Phillips, Executive Director of the Foundation, reaffirmed the competition's commitment to building communication and leadership skills among Nigerian youth.

Participants benefited from expert coaching led by Oluwaseun Olamipo Dawodu, the national coach, who facilitated sessions aimed at enhancing public speaking competence. The competition also received support from Genesis Studios, whose media partnership contributed to the success of the event.

Now in its latest edition, The Young Orators continues to grow in scope and impact, serving as a platform for nurturing the next generation of confident and articulate leaders.

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NLC has abandoned us, Over 2500 protesting Civil servants cry out in Cross River

On the 21st of September 2020, the city of Calabar experienced what had been long anticipated by many who are sympathetic with the sufferings of citizens of Cross River State whose names were unjustly removed from the Cross River State payroll

The streets of Calabar saw these pained and unjustly treated citizens protest against perceived injustice meted by the state government against over 2500 staff of the state civil service.

According to video footages and pictures of placard seen by our correspondent yesterday, these affected civil servants are protesting the delisting of their names from the state payroll. these civil servants have evidences that they were duly engaged by the state government but deprived their emoluments and other legitimate financial dues. 

Some of the protesters who spoke with our correspondent noted averred as follows:

Nakanda Nakanda, informed that the affected civil servants were duly engaged six (2015), four(2017) and one (2019) years ago. Those engaged 6 and 4 years ago were given appointment, and confirmation letters and were payrolled but on September 2019 (another source says exactly 14 September) the Cross River State Government, CRSG, delisted over two thousand five hundred civil servants from the state payroll. 

While Alorye Ushie another affected civil servant said there was job advertisement in newspapers according to which they were duly engaged. Again another affected Civil servant Naku Stephen Ayima a graduate of Economics said he has his '...letter of appointment, permanent appointment letter, confirmation letter and pay slip.'

The over 2,500 protesting civil servants delisted from the Cross River civil service said the protest will continue today till the injustice and illegal delisting of their names from the state payroll for over thirteen months is addressed. 

This media House learnt that the matter has already been instituted at the industrial court. It is worthy to note that the illegal delisting affected over five hundred science and mathematics teachers, some legal officers etc and Six of those affected have already lost their lives while some are currently hospitalized for one ailment or the other.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, have not been forthcoming to defend their cause. The Head of Service in the state was said to have walk out on the protesters yesterday when they protested to his office at the New Secretariat.

But the state government is alleging that the these affected staff were not engaged illegally. 

Sen. Eteng Williams Deepens Youth Engagement, Appoints Youth Aide Amidst Calls for Greater Inclusion

Eteng Williams in a warmth handshake with 
With the Cross River State Youth Council Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi

Ukorebi Esien | 19th April, 2025

IKOM — In a renewed effort to strengthen youth inclusion in governance, the Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Sen. Eteng Jonah Williams, has appointed Comrade Gifted Nelson as Special Assistant on Youth Affairs. The announcement was made during an interactive session with the Cross River Central Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), held Saturday at Gold Palm Hotels, Ikom.

The meeting, which brought together key youth stakeholders, including the State Chairman of NYCN, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, and executive council members from the Central Senatorial District, served as a platform for the youth to express their expectations and aspirations from the political class.

Addressing the Senator, Comrade Olayi emphasized the need for consistent engagement, representation, and economic empowerment of young people in the region.

"Youths are not just beneficiaries of governance; we are contributors to the democratic process. Our capacity and passion for development must be harnessed by leaders who truly believe in inclusive growth," he stated.

While commending Senator Williams for previous youth-oriented interventions, Olayi called for the institutionalization of more sustainable youth programs and the establishment of open communication channels between the Senator's office and youth constituencies.

In his response, Senator Williams acknowledged the strategic role of young people in nation-building, noting that such interactive forums are essential for effective representation.

"Governance should not be a monologue. It should be a dialogue between leaders and the people—especially the youths who are vital stakeholders in the development chain," Williams remarked.

He described the appointment of Comrade Gifted Nelson as part of a broader strategy to institutionalize youth voices in legislative decision-making and constituency relations.

"This is not just an appointment; it is a bridge for greater collaboration. Gifted Nelson will serve as your eyes, ears, and voice within my office," the Senator added, assuring that further engagements with youth bodies across the district would be prioritized going forward.

The development has been widely interpreted as a political masterstroke and a response to growing public expectations for youth-centric governance, especially as conversations around inclusive politics and participatory democracy gain momentum in Nigeria.

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C'River PDP in Turmoil: Party Accuse Vena Ikem of Betrayal, Demand Ouster Over Alleged APC Ties

Ukorebi Esien | April 15, 2025

CALABAR — The Cross River State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been plunged into fresh crisis as members of the State Executive Committee (SEC) accuse Chairman, Barr. Venatius Ikem, of betraying the party by allegedly aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a move they claim is crippling the PDP's opposition strength and fueling internal disintegration.

In what appears to be a coordinated uprising, 21 out of 36 State Executive Committee members, led by the zonal officers and party stakeholders from the three senatorial districts, demanded Ikem's immediate removal, citing gross misconduct, financial opacity, and autocratic leadership. They allege that his continued stay in office threatens the future of the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

At the center of the storm is an allegation that Ikem has been "playing both sides" by allegedly fraternizing with high-ranking APC leaders. Although the aggrieved officials did not publicly name those involved, they argue that this unholy alliance has rendered the PDP ineffective in its watchdog role. "Our chairman has compromised the soul of our party," a top party official stated under anonymity. "He is too cozy with those we are supposed to oppose. How then can we challenge bad governance?"

In a statement made available to TND, Hon. Rita Ekpenyong, Assistant State Secretary (South), disclosed that the SEC had, in accordance with the party's constitution, issued a communiqué mandating Ikem to appear before the committee on April 10, 2025, to answer to the weighty allegations. "He ignored the invitation and also refused to honour a seven-day grace period. That is a clear show of disrespect to the same body that gave him a mandate," she stated.

A cross-zonal investigative team, she said, visited the party secretariat and submitted its findings to the larger SEC, prompting the move for disciplinary measures.

Comrade Egbe Awo, Assistant Organizing Secretary (Central), described Ikem's leadership as "a one-man show," alleging that party decisions were often taken without consultations. "He takes unilateral actions and later stamps them as SEC resolutions. That's not democracy; it's dictatorship," he said. Awo also condemned what he called "threatening memos" issued to loyal party members, adding that Ikem's silence in the face of growing disenchantment has worsened the crisis.

In addition to poor leadership style, the party boss is also being accused of financial mismanagement. According to the petitioners, the chairman has handled party funds in a non-transparent manner, often working with a small circle of confidants without any formal budgetary disclosures. "There is no documented system for revenue or expenditure. We demand a detailed financial account of the party's income and expenses since September 2021," one member said.

During an extraordinary meeting on March 28, the SEC resolved to escalate the matter to the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC), invoking relevant sections of the party's constitution to demand Ikem's removal. The resolution was also copied to key party figures including former governors Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke, and serving senators Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Sandy Onor, and Gershom Bassey.

The crisis has reportedly triggered an exodus of party members. Prominent among them is Barr. Attah Ochinke, former House of Reps candidate for Ikom/Boki, and several local officials, many of whom accuse Ikem of employing "divide-and-rule" tactics that have alienated the grassroots.

Hon. Agabi Jacobs, Assistant Youth Leader (North), emphasized that while the petitioners are committed to internal unity, they are also ready to pursue legal redress if necessary. "We're trying to salvage the party using internal mechanisms. But if this abuse continues unchecked, we will head to court to save our party," he declared.

Esse Joseph, Assistant State Secretary (North), criticized the PDP's underwhelming performance as an opposition under Ikem's leadership. "While the APC-led government showcases routine projects as major feats, our party remains mute. Compare that with the performance of federal lawmakers like Senator Jarigbe, and you'll see the void Ikem has created," he lamented.

As of press time, Barr. Venatius Ikem has not responded to the allegations. However, insiders suggest that he may soon issue a rebuttal and rally his loyalists to counter the moves against him.

Meanwhile, SEC sources reveal that the committee is considering suspending Ikem and setting up a caretaker committee to lead the party pending the NEC's response. Such a move, if ratified, could dramatically reshape the leadership of the PDP in Cross River State and signal a new chapter in its internal reorganization.

With tensions running high, many are left wondering not just if Vena Ikem can weather this political storm — but whether the PDP in Cross River can survive this fracture and emerge as a united force before the 2027 elections.

— Developing story —

2027 Senate Ambition: Oden Ewa Breaks Silence on Alleged Move to Unseat Senator Eteng

By Ukorebi Esien | April 14, 2025

CALABAR – The Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Oden Ewa, has finally addressed growing speculations regarding his alleged ambition to contest the Central Senatorial seat in 2027, currently occupied by Senator Eteng Jones Williams.

In recent weeks, political observers and social media commentators have been abuzz with reports of behind-the-scenes power plays, as supporters of both political figures trade accusations over alleged plots to unseat Senator Williams. The Senator, a former Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, has faced criticism from some constituents who claim he has underperformed since assuming office at the National Assembly.

In what appears to be a strategic response, Senator Williams' media team has ramped up publicity efforts, highlighting his legislative strides and constituency projects, possibly in a bid to counter the growing narrative against his performance.

Amid the swirling allegations, Hon. Oden Ewa made a cryptic post on his official Facebook page that has further fueled speculations about his senatorial ambition. He wrote: "In a result-driven administration, one must always put his best foot forward."

The statement, though not a direct declaration, is being interpreted by political analysts as a subtle indication of Ewa's readiness to step into the senatorial race, with many reading between the lines that he may be positioning himself as the "best foot" for the job come 2027.

As the political atmosphere begins to heat up ahead of the next general election cycle, stakeholders and constituents alike are keenly watching how this potential rivalry between two political heavyweights will unfold in Cross River Central.

here's a link to Oden Ewa's comment