The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Cross River State has been hit by a major political shakeup ahead of the 2027 governorship election, following the sudden withdrawal of its deputy governorship candidate, Stella Charles Archibong, from the race.

Archibong, who formally announced her decision through an official letter to the party and an accompanying video address, revealed that she is stepping down from the NDC ticket to align with the “Back-to-South Movement”—a campaign backing incumbent Governor Bassey Edet Otu and his deputy, Peter Odey, of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Explaining the motives behind her exit, Archibong stated that the decision came after extensive consultations with community elders, her family, political stakeholders, and leaders within the Christian community across the state.

She emphasized that her duty to Cross River State transcends individual political ambitions, prompting her to throw her weight behind the current administration’s continuity agenda.

Related Stories

“My responsibility to Cross River State is bigger than my individual ambition,” Archibong declared.

In her address, she expressed appreciation to the NDC national leadership, the state chairman, Goddy Akpama, and the party’s governorship flagbearer, John Upan Odey, for granting her the platform to run. She also tendered an apology to her supporters and campaign team who might feel let down by the sudden turn of events.

Reaction within the opposition party was swift. Responding to his running mate’s departure, NDC governorship candidate John Upan Odey admitted the news caught the party off guard, but called for calm and restraint among supporters.

“This development has come as a surprise. I believe that moments such as this call for calm, maturity, mutual respect, and responsible leadership,” Odey stated.

Despite the setback, Odey maintained a respectful tone toward Archibong, acknowledging her dedication and prior contributions to their joint campaign. He reassured party members that broad consultations are currently underway with key stakeholders to evaluate the situation and chart the NDC’s next steps.

Odey stressed that the party’s vision to build a prosperous, inclusive, and economically dynamic Cross River State remains intact despite the reshuffle.

Archibong’s departure and cross-alignment mark a significant strategic shift in Cross River’s political landscape, delivering a boost to Governor Otu’s re-election momentum while leaving the opposition NDC to quickly recalibrate its ticket ahead of 2027.