Hundreds dumps PDP in Utugwang North Ward as Key Figures Join APC in Obudu Ahead of Local Council Elections
By Agba Atuabo – Obudu
In a dramatic turn of events in Utugwang North Ward of Obudu Local Government Area, Cross River State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) achieved a significant political victory as hundreds of members and key leaders from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) officially defected to the APC.
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This development unfolded on October 29th, 2024, during the campaign tour led by Mr. Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, the APC Chairmanship Candidate in Obudu, as part of the party’s preparation for the upcoming Local Government Council Elections scheduled for November 2nd, 2024.
The defection of influential figures from the PDP underscores a seismic shift in political allegiance within the ward, which many see as a harbinger of potential electoral successes for the APC in the forthcoming elections. Among the notable defectors are prominent figures such as Mr. Godwin Aburu, Mr. Peter Ishi Okemiteh, Arc. Godwin Ogbada, Dr. Mrs. Monica Elaunire, Mr. Monday Ite (popularly known as Alinko), Mr. Peter Ibioro Awhen, Mr. Pius Agbama Otie, and Emmanuel Ojisor, a former PDP Councillorship aspirant.
Others include Agnes Agba, Michael Ashibi, Togo Sunday Ebenhe, Opu Gabvincent Ushie, Opu Godwin, Eliom John-James Elaunire, Ekperehe Michael Ikpa, Margaret Aburu, Sampson Aburu, Ochui Emmanuel Elaunire, Awhen Ojisor, Linus Ojisor, and Omebe Sunday, Ugbe Oniah, Nchor Daniel, Nchor Paulina, Inakwu Thomas, Owara Saviour, Oburu Gabriel, Adamade Edward, Afo Oko (Paddy), and Ite Simon
Mr. James Alicha, a respected elder statesman and influential APC stakeholder in the ward, formally welcomed the new members into the APC fold, and expressed optimism that their decision to join the APC represents a shift toward a more progressive future for Utugwang North Ward.
He also attributed this growing support to what he described as the “Season of Sweetness,” referring to the quality leadership provided by Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu, often affectionately called the “Sweet Governor” of Cross River State.
In his remarks, Mr. Alicha emphasized that the APC is committed to effective governance, offering a robust platform for leadership that aims to deliver impactful and sustainable growth for the state, “The APC remains the party that understands the technicalities of governance and possesses the acumen to transform the aspirations of the people into tangible results.”
On his part, Mr. Peter Undiandeye, reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the welfare of the people through various socio-economic initiatives, if voted into office come November 2nd, 2024.
The defectors, in their statements, expressed optimism about the APC’s promises of change and reiterated their resolve to work collectively towards ensuring the party’s success in the upcoming local government elections.
The APC Ward Chairman Mr Paul Akpanke voiced the sentiments of many, stating, “This is not a decision we as a party will take lightly, the leadership style and vision of the APC in our state is clear, this is where you belong.” Also, the APC Councillorship Candidate, Mr Sam Ashibi thank the defectors for the bold step they have taken to join the APC, he promised that if elected, he will ensure that the dividend of their efforts reaches the party members in the Ward.
Political analysts suggest that the wave of defection could mark a turning point, not only in Utugwang North Ward but across Obudu Local Government Area and Cross River North, as political dynamics evolve in response to grassroots sentiment and renewed calls for inclusive governance under the leadership of APC candidates.
