The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State has named former deputy state chairman, Mr. Ekum Ojogu, as its acting chairman following the impeachment of Barr. Alphonsus Eba on Thursday.
Eba’s ouster capped a long-running internal crisis marked by accusations of financial mismanagement, high-handedness, insolence, and a transactional approach to party leadership.
The tension reportedly strained his relationship with chapter and ward executives across the state.
Before the impeachment, 18 vice chairmen and 196 ward chairmen had openly demanded Eba’s resignation, citing a collapse of trust and cohesion in the party.
At a State Executive Committee meeting held at the APC state secretariat in Calabar, and attended by Zonal Secretary Dr. Edet Udosen and other top officials, State Secretary Pastor Patrick Asikpo Okon invoked Article 17(6) of the party’s constitution.
He explained that the executive had the constitutional authority to remove the chairman, adding that 30 of the 32 members present voted in favour of the motion.
In his acceptance remarks, Ojogu thanked party members for their confidence in him during what he described as a sensitive leadership transition.
He pointed to the overwhelming unity displayed as proof of the party’s collective commitment to Cross River State.
He noted that the impeachment vote was conducted on 26 November 2025 and stressed the need for stability, discipline, and adherence to internal democratic processes.
Ojogu urged members to put aside their differences, assuring that all pending entitlements and dues owed to officials would be cleared.
“It is time to sheath our swords. Let us set aside differences and work together. Your patience and trust fuel our resolve to move forward as one party,” he said.
He commended Ward Executives, Polling Unit Coordinators, and volunteers for sustaining the APC’s relevance and influence in the state’s political landscape.
Pledging open-door leadership, Ojogu said he would remain accessible through phone calls, WhatsApp, and personal meetings.
He reaffirmed commitment to the party’s ‘People First’ mantra, promising to work tirelessly to deliver democratic dividends.
Ojogu also pledged unwavering loyalty to Governor Bassey Otu, describing his administration as embodying the “Season of Sweetness.”
He called for sustained peace, cooperation, and unity to keep the APC strong and cohesive in Cross River State.
