The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has suffered a setback in Cross River State ahead of the 2027 governorship election following the withdrawal of its Deputy Governorship candidate, Stella Charles Archibong, from the party’s ticket.
Archibong announced her decision in a statement released in Calabar on Wednesday, declaring support for the re-election of Governor Bassey Otu under the Back to South Movement.
She attributed her decision to extensive consultations with elders, family members, members of the Christian community and political stakeholders across the state.
According to her, the collective interest and future of Cross River State outweighed her personal political ambition, prompting her to align with the political direction of the Otu administration.
“My responsibility to Cross River State is bigger than my individual ambition,” she said.
The former NDC deputy governorship candidate expressed gratitude to the party’s State Chairman, Goddy Akwama, its governorship candidate, John Odey, and the national leadership for giving her the opportunity to contest on its platform.
She also apologised to supporters who might be disappointed by her decision, while appreciating their confidence and support throughout her political engagement with the party.
Reacting to her withdrawal, the NDC governorship candidate, John Odey, described the development as surprising but appealed to party members and supporters to remain calm.
In a statement, Odey said the situation required maturity, mutual respect and responsible leadership.
“This development has come as a surprise. I believe that moments such as this call for calm, maturity, mutual respect, and responsible leadership,” he stated.
Odey said he held Archibong in high regard and acknowledged her contributions and commitment to the party’s vision for Cross River State.
He further disclosed that consultations were ongoing with party leaders, stakeholders and other concerned individuals to establish the circumstances surrounding her decision and determine the party’s next line of action.
Despite the development, the NDC candidate assured supporters that the party remained committed to its vision of building a prosperous, inclusive and economically productive Cross River State.
