Dark Days Ahead for Cross River North PDP As Serving Reps Member, Akpanke, Concludes Plans to Join APC

Dark Days Ahead for Cross River North PDP As Serving Reps Member, Akpanke, Concludes Plans to Join APC

 

 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River North is facing an uncertain future as Hon. Peter Akpanke, the House of Representatives member representing Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwarra federal constituency, is set to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), according to reliable sources.

 

Barring any last-minute change of heart, Akpanke’s departure could deal a significant blow to the PDP’s strength in the region, particularly given his influence and grassroots appeal. His looming defection follows months of speculation and behind-the-scenes political consultations.

 

Sources close to Akpanke confirm that his relationship with Deputy Governor Peter Odey has grown increasingly close, a development that has reportedly caused friction with Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, the PDP’s Northern Senatorial District leader.

 

This political shift has stoked concerns among PDP loyalists, some of whom have accused Akpanke of double-dealing and cozying up to APC powerbrokers.

 

Insiders revealed that Akpanke’s defection deal was sealed nearly six months ago, but the plan was temporarily shelved after it was leaked to PDP stakeholders. His conspicuous absence at a recent town hall meeting organized by Senator Jarigbe further fueled the rumours.

 

Akpanke, a long-time member of the Jari Movement and Unconquered Generation, won his House of Representatives seat in 2023 under the PDP banner.

 

However, recent political developments, including talks of former University of Calabar Vice Chancellor Prof. Zana Akpagu being groomed to contest the federal seat in 2027, may have influenced his decision to realign with the ruling APC.

 

According to sources, Akpanke sought support from Deputy Governor Odey, who facilitated a high-level meeting with Governor Bassey Otu in Abuja. Present at the meeting were APC State Chairman Alphonsus Eba and Chief of Staff Emmanuel Ironbar, signaling the final stages of Akpanke’s transition to the APC.

 

Meanwhile, during Senator Jarigbe’s town hall meeting, Prof. Akpagu confirmed his intentions to rejoin active politics, though he stopped short of declaring a party affiliation.

 

“For now, I am still an illegal member. I am going to see my ward chairman, chapter chairman, and secretary. I have not officially defected but I am coming back. So, accept me when I come,” he said.

 

As the PDP braces for what appears to be a major political shakeup, analysts warn that Akpanke’s exit could trigger a domino effect, weakening the party’s hold on the Northern Senatorial District and reshaping the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.