On Friday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, Nigeria, inaugurated Dr. Francis Abang Bullem as its new state chairman and unveiled a “Rainbow Coalition” aimed at attracting members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 governorship election. The announcement was made by the party’s governorship candidate, Arthur Jarvis, signalling the PDP’s intent to reclaim the state.
Jarvis told supporters that “the windows of defection are open to our brothers in APC” and emphasized that the party he envisions for 2027 will be “a party for all Cross Riverians, not a closed club.” He urged both PDP and APC members to set aside differences and unite behind the common goal of winning the state.
“When we come into office in 2027, it is going to be a party for Cross Riverians,” Jarvis said.
In his acceptance speech, Bullem pledged to heal the wounds from the recent leadership contest, extending “a sincere hand of fellowship and partnership” to those who backed other candidates. He promised to lead with integrity, listen to members, and build partnerships that will strengthen the PDP, describing reconciliation, partnership and inclusiveness as his watchwords.
State Secretary Joe Obi Bisong explained that Bullem’s emergence followed the resignation of the former chairman. The State Working Committee acted in accordance with Article 47, Subsection 6 of the PDP constitution, which mandates that a vacancy be filled by a nominee from the same zone as the predecessor before taking the oath of office.
Cross River State, located in Nigeria’s southeastern region, has been a battleground between the PDP and the APC for control of the governorship. The PDP’s outreach to APC members through the Rainbow Coalition marks a strategic shift as both parties prepare for the 2027 electoral cycle.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
