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Ukorebi Esien I September 27, 2025
CALABAR —Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has described the just-concluded state congress of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River as both legitimate and credible, stressing that there was no alternative or parallel process to undermine its validity.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the exercise, Jarigbe said he was satisfied with the conduct of the congress, noting that it was calm, well-organised, and reflective of the will of party members.
"It is a legitimate congress. There is no alternative. This is the only congress," he stated firmly, when asked to clarify his use of the term "legitimate."
The lawmaker dismissed speculations that some groups within the party had sought to stop the congress, insisting that such voices were "incompetent to take that decision." Citing a popular legal maxim, he said: "In law, you cannot put something on nothing. That is disregarded."
When asked what would happen if any faction or group sought to challenge the outcome in court, Jarigbe maintained that the process was in strict alignment with the party's constitution and therefore unassailable.
"This congress holding today is predicated on NEC's decision. That's why we are holding this congress. I don't think there is any group that can go to court or challenge this in any way," he affirmed.
On whether the exercise will strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, the senator expressed optimism. "Very, very well. We chose very capable men and women to run the affairs of the party. So we are good to go," he said.
Jarigbe also addressed his past disagreements with the state chairman of the party, saying such issues had since been resolved amicably. "We had some disagreements, but we resolved it as a family. So we are good to go," he assured.
In his post-election remarks, the re-elected State Chairman, Venatius Ikem, said the congress offered the party an opportunity to rebuild and reposition itself.
The congress, which produced Venacious Ikem as chairman for a second term, is expected to reposition the PDP in Cross River State as the party prepares to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next electoral cycle.
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