By Kelvin Obambon
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River on Friday sworn in Dr Francis Abang Bullem as its new state chairman, filling a vacancy created by the resignation of the former chairman, Barr. Venatius Ikem.
The state secretary of the party, Hon. Joe Obi Bisong, explained that the swearing in was sanctioned by the party’s constitution after Ikem decided not only to resign his membership but also his position as state chairman on 16 October.
“We received his letter, and in line with Article 47 sub 6 of our constitution which states that once a vacancy has been created in the committee of the party, the relevant organ of the party should sit down, nominate somebody for that same role and then swear the person into office,” Bisong said.
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He noted that the state working committee met, adopted a nominee from the same zone, and presented Bullem, describing him as a long-standing member who joined the party in 1998, a seasoned banker, and a former governorship aspirant who contested the 2014 primaries. Bisong also highlighted Bullem’s role as Director-General of the governorship campaign for the party’s flag bearer.
In his acceptance speech, Bullem, who becomes the sixth state chairman of the PDP in Cross River, expressed gratitude and called for unity.
“With a heart full of gratitude and humility, I accept my nomination and swearing in as the sixth state chairman of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party, Cross River State,” he said. “I assume office at one of the most trying times in our party history. This moment calls for unity, partnership and healing at every level and across all of the organs of the party.”
Bullem pledged to lead with integrity, listen to members’ concerns, and build partnerships to strengthen the party ahead of the general elections. He thanked party leaders, including the presidential candidate, Senator Sandy Onor, board of trustee members, and governorship candidate, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, as well as the state working committee, executive committee, candidates and stakeholders for their support.
“We are one party and there is room for everyone. There is no victory, no vanquish,” Bullem stated. “Together we must serve with purpose and honor the sacrifices that have sustained us as a party and as a people.”
In his remarks, the party’s governorship flag bearer, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong described the moment as significant after a difficult period for the party. He recounted challenges including defections and internal strains but said the party had emerged stronger.
Archibong paid tribute to the former chairman’s long service while expressing confidence in the new leadership. “To our new chairman, we believe in you 100 percent. We trust in your abilities. You have been a combatant in the private sector. You are a party man. And we know that we can trust you. And we know that our future has begun from today.”
He urged party members and Cross Riverians across divides to work together for the state’s recovery and announced plans for a “Rainbow Coalition,” while keeping the door open for defectors.
The swearing in marked a formal transition aimed at stabilising the party’s structure in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.
