Jesam Ofem (Trinity)
In a major political shift, Ntufam Francis Effiom PhD, alongside key political associates, officially defected from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on September 15, 2024. The high-profile defection took place at Nkonib Town Hall in Ikot Ansa, Ward 8 of Calabar Municipality, Cross River State.
Speaking to journalists at the venue, Effiom noted the remarkable achievements of Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, as a primary factor for their move. Effiom praised the governor for his dedication to grassroots development, pointing out the construction of the NNPC road and the rehabilitation of Asimita Street as evidence of the governor’s commitment to the people of Ward 8.
"It is clear that Senator Prince Bassey Otu has attended to the needs of my people in just a few months of being in office. That is capacity," Effiom remarked.
"Politics is local, and we have come to add value to APC, not to displace those who were here before us. The more, the merrier."
Effiom emphasized that the defection involved not just himself but also key PDP figures, including the PDP Ward Leader Ntufam Bernard Iso and Ward Chairman Francis Asi.
"If we, the pillars of PDP in Ward 8, have decided to join APC, it’s a sign for other members to follow suit. There is no PDP left in Ward 8; we have collapsed its structure," he declared confidently.
The defectors were warmly received by APC leadership, with Pastor Hon. Asikpo Okon, the State Secretary of APC, expressing his joy at welcoming such significant political figures to the party.
"You are here because of a man who has brought sweetness to our lives, Senator Otu. There is no old APC or new APC; everyone is entitled to the same benefits," Okon stated.
He also revealed his vision to further diminish PDP's influence in the Southern Senatorial District of Cross River State.
"People are now voluntarily joining APC because they see the positive changes in the state under Governor Otu. We are expecting more defections soon, from areas like Biase, Akamkpa, and Obubra," Okon added.
Pastor James Anam, Director General of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), also addressed the gathering, encouraging the defectors to integrate fully into APC and help advance the party’s objectives.
"You are entitled to the same benefits as those who have been with us from the start. Let’s work together to take APC to greater heights and avoid the mistakes of past elections," Anam said.
Comrade Iso Edim, an aspirant for APC Chairmanship in Calabar Municipality, praised the defectors for their political strength.
"In politics, capacity means being able to win your polling unit. Today, we have seen capable people joining APC, and we welcome them," he stated.
The event was attended by a number of APC dignitaries, including the Caucus Chairman and Chapter Chairman of Calabar Municipality, Emmanuel Mbora, as well as Mr. Bassey Effiom Antigha, Chief Jonathan, Ntufam Ikpeme Edem, and Hon. Edem Bassey. Other prominent figures included Kingsley Ekpe Okon, Dennis Ekpo, and Barr. Patrick Edet, and members of the Iso Bassey Edem Campaign Council.
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