By pet media
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Etomi Ward, Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, has intensified efforts to strengthen its grassroots structure following the return of former members from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The latest returnee, Mr Fred Ori Amba, has joined the party amid ongoing political realignments in the community ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Amba’s return to the APC followed a strategic political meeting in Calabar involving prominent Etomi stakeholders, including Barr. Gilbert Agbor, Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery; Hon. Patrick Ebam Emmanghe, former Commissioner for Special Duties; Dr Cyril Abang Agbor, Head of the Department of Anatomy at the University of Calabar; Hon. Roland Oku Takon, former councillor representing Etomi Ward; and Mr Mgboki Emmanghe.
The development is part of efforts by APC leaders in Etomi to consolidate the party’s grassroots presence, strengthen internal cohesion and encourage former members to return ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking on Amba’s return, Barr. Gilbert Agbor attributed the growing interest among former members in rejoining the APC to sustained grassroots engagement and political consultations with stakeholders in the community.
He welcomed Amba back to the party and urged him, alongside other returnees, to work closely with existing members to promote unity and strengthen the party’s structures in Etomi.
Agbor also called on party members to support Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s second-term ambition, expressing confidence in the Governor’s performance and arguing that another term would provide an opportunity to consolidate his administration’s achievements and advance the state’s development agenda.
In his remarks, Hon. Patrick Ebam Emmanghe emphasised the importance of unity and cooperation among the people of Etomi, noting that sustainable development required a collective commitment from community leaders, stakeholders and residents.
He maintained that meaningful progress could be achieved when the people worked together towards common goals, stressing the need for collaboration and a shared vision for the development of the community.
He encouraged the returnee to work with other party members in strengthening the APC’s presence and advancing its objectives in the ward.
The latest development comes amid efforts by political stakeholders in Etomi to consolidate party structures and strengthen their respective support bases ahead of the 2027 general elections.
While APC leaders are seeking to attract former members and expand the party’s grassroots network, the continuing political realignments present a challenge for the PDP in maintaining its membership and influence in the ward.
Amba’s return has therefore added to ongoing political discussions in Etomi, with party stakeholders placing renewed emphasis on unity, grassroots mobilisation and organisational consolidation as preparations for the next electoral cycle gather momentum.
