The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) governorship candidate in Cross River State, John Odey, has been left without his running mate after his deputy governorship candidate, Stella Charles Archibong, withdrew from the party’s ticket.
Archibong announced her decision in a statement made available to journalists in Calabar on Wednesday, November 11.
She also declared support for Governor Bassey Otu’s re-election bid under the Back to South Movement, Naija News reports.
The former deputy governorship candidate said her decision followed consultations with elders, family members, the Christian community and political stakeholders across the state.
She explained that her responsibility to Cross River State was more important than her personal political ambition, adding that she had decided to align with the political direction of the Otu administration.
“My responsibility to Cross River State is bigger than my individual ambition,” she said.
Archibong thanked the NDC State Chairman, Goddy Akpama, the party’s governorship candidate, John Odey, and its national leadership for giving her the opportunity to serve on the party’s platform.
She also apologised to supporters who might be disappointed by her decision and appreciated them for their support and confidence in her political journey.
Reacting to the development, Odey described Archibong’s withdrawal as a surprise but called on party members and supporters to remain calm.
In a statement, he said the situation required maturity, mutual respect and responsible leadership.
“This development has come as a surprise. I believe that moments such as this call for calm, maturity, mutual respect, and responsible leadership,” he said.
Odey added that he held Archibong in high regard and respected her contributions and commitment to the development of Cross River State.
He further disclosed that he was consulting with party leaders, stakeholders and other concerned individuals to understand the reasons behind her decision and determine the next steps.
Despite the development, the NDC candidate assured supporters that the party remained committed to its vision of building a prosperous, inclusive and economically productive Cross River State.
