According to punch newspaper the Nigeria Democratic Congress has conducted its state congress in Cross River State, resulting in the emergence of Goddy Akpama as the new chairman of the party in the state.
Akpama, a former chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, was elected through a consensus arrangement supervised by the Independent National Electoral Commission. The exercise took place at the Chinese Restaurant located within the Cross River State Housing Estate in Calabar on Monday.
The congress was coordinated by a committee headed by Christian Gekpe, with Emmanuel Yakurr and Gabriel Abu serving as members, while Clement Agiangie chaired the Appeal Committee to address any grievances arising from the process.
Party members gathered in large numbers to witness the exercise, which was described by stakeholders as peaceful and well-organised. Observers noted that the consensus approach adopted by the party helped to avoid internal disputes and ensured a smooth transition of leadership.
In his acceptance remarks, Akpama pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him by members of the party, promising to lead with transparency and inclusiveness. He assured party faithful that his leadership would prioritise unity and grassroots mobilisation ahead of future political engagements.
Akpama also stressed the importance of strengthening the party’s structure across all local government areas in the state, adding that efforts would be made to attract more members and build a formidable political platform.
The congress further served as an avenue for the party to deliberate on its broader political direction, with members expressing support for key national figures, including Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, as part of ongoing alignment discussions ahead of future elections.
Stakeholders at the event reiterated their commitment to democratic ideals and internal cohesion, noting that the success of the congress reflected the party’s readiness to play a more active role in the state’s political landscape.
The Independent National Electoral Commission officials present commended the orderly conduct of the exercise, noting that it complied with laid-down guidelines for party congresses.
With the emergence of the new executive, expectations are high among members that the Nigeria Democratic Congress will consolidate its presence in Cross River State and position itself strategically for upcoming political contests.
