Calabar, Cross River State – The 2023 deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, Dr. Emana Ambrose Amawhe, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing a renewed commitment to grassroots development and alignment with the leadership style of Governor Bassey Otu.

Speaking at the APC secretariat in Calabar during a grand defection rally on Saturday, Dr. Emana said her move, alongside thousands of her supporters, marks a “new political season” not only for herself but for Cross River State.

“Today’s occasion is the beginning of new things politically, not just for me but for over a hundred of my followers who have decided to cross over to the APC from the PDP across the 18 local government areas,” she declared to a cheering crowd of party faithful.

Dr. Emana, a veteran broadcaster and entrepreneur, said her decision was inspired by Governor Otu’s “exceptional leadership and development strides,” particularly his efforts in restoring peace and security to her native Akpabuyo Local Government Area.

“When a leader performs outstandingly, it is natural to want to join forces to contribute to the growth of the state. This decision goes beyond politics—it is about effective service to our people,” she said.

She added that political affiliations should be driven by ideology and choice, not compulsion, stating that her defection was voluntary and strategic.

“No one is forced to join a political party. My supporters and I have chosen to collapse our structure into the APC to support Governor Otu’s ‘People’s First’ mandate and partner with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda,” she emphasized.

The defection event was attended by party executives, stakeholders, and supporters. Among those who decamped were several PDP state working committee members, signaling a significant shift in Cross River’s political dynamics.

In his remarks, APC State Chairman Alphonsus Eba welcomed the new members and praised Dr. Emana for following due process in her transition to the party.

“We have chosen this day, with the approval of our leader, Governor Bassey Otu—ably represented here by Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey—to welcome you all. You have gone through your ward structures and are now full-fledged members of the APC,” he stated.

Eba called on the defectors to be active contributors to the party’s success in the 2027 general elections, urging them to bring their influence and commitment to bear in mobilizing support across the state.

The mass defection is seen as a major boost for the APC in Cross River, with analysts suggesting it could significantly alter the political landscape ahead of the next election cycle.