BY TAIBAT UMMI YAKUBU

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has been hit by an unexpected political development in Cross River State after its Deputy Governorship candidate, Stella Charles Archibong, abandoned the party's ticket and declared support for Governor Bassey Otu's second-term ambition.

Archibong announced her decision on Wednesday in Calabar, throwing her political weight behind the governor's re-election campaign under the Back to South Movement, ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

She explained that the decision followed consultations with family members, community elders, Christian leaders and political stakeholders across the state, stressing that her commitment to Cross River's future had taken precedence over her personal political interests.

In a statement announcing her withdrawal, Archibong maintained that her decision was guided by what she considered the broader interest of the state rather than the pursuit of political office.

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

Her exit represents a significant development for the NDC's governorship campaign, coming at a time when political parties and their candidates are positioning themselves for the 2027 contest.

Despite withdrawing from the race, Archibong acknowledged the support she received from the party, particularly its state chairman, Goddy Akwama, governorship candidate John Odey and the national leadership, thanking them for giving her the opportunity to contest on the NDC platform.

She also appealed to supporters who might feel disappointed by her decision to understand her position, expressing gratitude for their loyalty and confidence during her political engagement with the party.

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Reacting to the development, Odey admitted that Archibong's withdrawal came as a surprise but appealed to party members not to allow the situation to create divisions or trigger unnecessary tensions.

He called for restraint, maturity and mutual respect, noting that the circumstances surrounding her decision required responsible handling.

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

The NDC governorship candidate also acknowledged Archibong's contributions, saying he held her in high regard and respected her commitment to the political aspirations of Cross River.

He disclosed that the party had begun consultations with its leaders, stakeholders and other concerned individuals to establish the circumstances behind her withdrawal and determine the next course of action.

Despite the setback, Odey insisted that the development would not derail the party's broader political objectives, reaffirming its commitment to building a prosperous, inclusive and economically productive Cross River State.