Ukorebi Esien | April 28, 2026
CALABAR – A coalition of young political actors under the aegis of Cross River Youth in Politics has endorsed 14 aspirants, including Oden Ewa, ahead of the 2027 general elections, in what could be described as an early attempt to shape the political landscape within the state.
The group, which describes itself as an umbrella body of young people actively engaged in politics across Cross River State, announced the endorsement in a statement jointly signed by its State Chairman, Amb. Jerry Odey, and other zonal leaders.
According to the statement, the endorsed aspirants were carefully selected based on their “youthful energy, proven leadership capacity, and contributions to the development of young people” across the state. The group emphasized that its decision reflects a growing desire among youths to promote a new generation of leaders, distancing itself from what it termed “recycled century-long politicians.”
Top on the list is Oden Ewa, endorsed for the Cross River Central Senatorial District. Others include Chief Henry Dennis Bassey (Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency), Barr. Ijom Ukam (Akamkpa/Biase), Barr. Godwin Offiono (Ogoja/Yala), Victor Abang (Boki/Ikom), and Dan Obo Jnr (Obubra/Etung), all for the House of Representatives.
At the state legislative level, the group endorsed a mix of male and female aspirants across various constituencies, including Sir John Odo Eru (Yala I), Mrs. Jennifer Michael Usani Ibiang (Yakurr I), Grace Unah (Yala II), Hon. Samuel Neji Abang (Ikom I), Comrade Victor Bassey (Abi), Phylo Modlin Odu (Boki), Victor Essien Ekpe (Calabar South), and Engr. Thomas Aruku (Ogoja).
The youth body expressed confidence in the capacity of the endorsed individuals to deliver effective representation at both national and state levels, noting that their track records demonstrate commitment to grassroots development and inclusive governance.
“This endorsement is in recognition of their rare leadership disposition and their consistent investment in youth empowerment and community development,” the statement read. “We are confident in their preparedness to represent our people effectively.”
The group further called on leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State to consider its position during the party’s primary elections, urging them to support candidates who reflect the aspirations of the younger generation.
The endorsement was also backed by a network of local government coordinators across the 18 LGAs of the state, signaling a coordinated grassroots effort to rally support for the chosen aspirants.
With political activities gradually gaining momentum ahead of the next election cycle, the move by Cross River Youth in Politics highlights a broader push for generational shift and increased youth participation in governance within the state.
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