Cross River PDP Faces Major Depletion as Senator Gershom Bassey and Dr. Mkpang Coco-Bassey Defect to ADC

Cross River PDP chieftains Senator Gershom Bassey and Dr. Mkpang Coco-Bassey resign, joining the ADC coalition associated with Peter Obi.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 17, 2026, 12:33 PM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from The Guardian Nigeria

High-Profile Resignations Shake Cross River Opposition

The Peoples Democratic Party in Cross River State has suffered a significant political blow following the formal exit of two of its most influential members. Senator Gershom Bassey, a founding member and former representative of the South Senatorial District, alongside Dr. Mkpang Coco-Bassey, have both terminated their membership. In separate resignation letters made public on Tuesday, the chieftains cited persistent internal crises and unresolved conflicts as the primary drivers for their departure. This dual exit marks a critical shift in the state's political landscape, as both men were central figures in the party’s 2023 governorship primary.

Senator Gershom Bassey Laments Erosion of Party Ideals

In his correspondence to the Ward 9 Chairman in Calabar South, Senator Gershom Bassey expressed deep regret over the current state of the PDP. As a veteran lawmaker and foundational pillar of the party, Bassey noted that the ongoing divisions have effectively weakened the unity and principles upon which the organization was built. He emphasized that it had become increasingly difficult to function within a system that no longer reflects his core political beliefs. His resignation takes immediate effect, ending a decades-long tenure that saw him serve as a key legislative voice for the South Senatorial District.

Coco-Bassey Shifts Focus to "Obidient" Coalition

Dr. Mkpang Coco-Bassey, a UK-based engineer and President of the Calabar Forum, echoed similar sentiments in his resignation from Ward 11. He described his decision as one born of careful reflection after years of committing his personal resources and energy to the party’s growth. Notably, Coco-Bassey revealed his intention to align with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), specifically citing its growing association with supporters of Peter Obi. This strategic move suggests that the ADC is successfully positioning itself as the primary vehicle for the "Obidient" movement in the South-South region.