# Cross River PDP leadership crisis

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cross-river-pdp-leadership-crisis
> Updated: 2026-10-24T10:35:52.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

The internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State intensified following the resignation of state chairman Venatius Ikem. In his resignation letter, Ikem cited prolonged internal crises, growing divisions, and a lack of clear direction as the reasons for his departure, expressing concern that these issues could weaken the party’s electoral competitiveness.

Following the resignation, Julius Udayi of the Turaki-led faction declared that the ‘Rainbow Coalition’ had collapsed. Udayi characterized Ikem’s exit as a setback for the political influence of Governor Nyesom Wike within the state’s PDP. The factional leadership indicated that they are awaiting a judgment from the Court of Appeal to resolve the ongoing leadership dispute and validate their candidates.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-24: Cross River PDP crisis intensifies after Venatius Ikem resigns

The Turaki-led faction of the Cross River PDP declared the ‘Rainbow Coalition’ dead following the resignation of Venatius Ikem, citing an impending court judgment to resolve the leadership crisis.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cross-river-pdp-crisis-intensifies-after-venatius-ikem-resigns

### 2026-10-16: Venatius Ikem resigns as Cross River PDP chairman

Venatius Ikem has resigned as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairman in Cross River State, citing internal crises, leadership challenges, and a lack of clear direction within the party.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/venatius-ikem-resigns-as-cross-river-pdp-chairman

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Cite as: Cross River PDP leadership crisis. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cross-river-pdp-leadership-crisis