By Kelvin Obambon
In a move that will shape the political landscape of Cross River ahead of the 2027 general elections, Engr. Mkpang CocoBassey, a prominent figure in the oil and gas sector, has officially declared his intention to run for the office of Governor under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The declaration took place on Thursday, April 16, 2026, during his manual membership registration at Ward 11, Calabar South. CocoBassey, who recently resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in February, described the ADC as viable alternative capable of rescuing the state from its current developmental stagnation.
Addressing a crowd of supporters and party faithful, the 48-year-old aspirant unveiled his five-point “AHEAD” agenda, which he claims will serve as a roadmap for the state’s recovery.
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“I came with a vision called AHEAD,” CocoBassey stated. “A stands for Action, because I am a man of action. H stands for Hope; we have lost hope in governance and I want to rekindle it. E is for Empowerment – not the distribution of bicycles or Keke NAPEP, but developmental empowerment where we teach people how to fish.”
Explaining the final letters of his mantra, he added: “A stands for Altitude. Having spent 15 years in the oil and gas industry flying in helicopters, I am not afraid of heights. I have the personality to take Cross River to the height of its destination. Finally, D stands for Development across the health, agriculture, and youth sectors.”
The aspirant did not mince words regarding the performance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He cited the lack of basic amenities in parts of the state as evidence of failed leadership.
“I drove to Akamkpa yesterday; they have not had electricity for 12 to 13 years. We don’t have light in the state, and yet people say the APC is doing well?” he queried. “The rainbow sign of the ADC shows that old things have passed away. We are here to rescue the state from consumption to production.”
CocoBassey also made a passionate plea to the youth, urging them to take active roles in leadership to prevent “unqualified persons” from occupying sensitive offices.
Supporting the aspirant’s declaration, the ADC Chapter Chairman for Calabar South, Comrade Umoh Williams, predicted a “paradigm shift” in the coming elections. He criticized the economic policies of the federal government, specifically the removal of the fuel subsidy, which he claimed has exacerbated the suffering of Nigerians.
“We have tried a renewed agenda and it has not worked,” Williams said. “Today, we are suffering more than when the subsidy was there. I joined the ADC because I am convinced this is the party to beat. Despite the blockades and intimidation from the powers that be, ADC remains determined. We are on the right track.”
Also speaking, the ADC chairman of ward 11, Mrs Ikpoanwan Ayi, thanked members for believing in the Party. She expressed optimism that ADC will capture power come 2027.
The event concluded with the official manual registration of Engr. CocoBassey in Ward 11, signaling the commencement of a grassroots mobilization intended to challenge the ruling APC in Cross River State.
The event was attended by prominent members of the party, including Dr Maurice Ekong, State Coordinator of ADC on Electoral Matters, and Phillip Tosa, Assistant State Financial Secretary.
