The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has issued a stern warning to its members over the use of social media platforms to insult or attack party officials.
In a statement released on Friday following a meeting with local government chairmen in Calabar, state party chairman Chief Venatius Ikem condemned what he described as a surge in “cyberstalking” by party members.
“We seriously frown at the high rate of cyberstalking by some members on party officials, characterized by opening of unauthorized social media platforms where abuses are wantonly committed. Offenders will be punished to serve as deterrent to others,” the statement read.
As part of efforts to reorganize and strengthen the party, the Cross River PDP has launched a verification exercise to identify legitimate party executives. Ikem said the initiative is aimed at building a more unified and resilient party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He also addressed the ongoing defection of members to rival parties, attributing it to the economic hardships allegedly institutionalized by the ruling party. Ikem praised loyal PDP members for resisting pressure to switch sides.
“Some defectors to the APC aren’t reaping any tangible benefits but rather seek to bask in the ruling party’s aura, while some unscrupulous officials are exploiting its membership as immunity from prosecution,” he said.
He added that many of those leaving the PDP lack a firm political ideology and are driven by personal interests. Despite the defections, he noted that the party is also welcoming returnees, including former members and their supporters.
Ikem emphasized that party-switching is not unique to Cross River but is part of a broader trend across Nigeria, often driven by opportunism rather than principle. He reiterated that the PDP remains the most viable political platform for Nigeria’s future.
