The newly sworn-in Chapter Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, Hon. Emmanuel Mbeh Ndum, has pledged to prioritize unity and reconciliation within the party as part of efforts to strengthen its structure ahead of future political contests.
Ndum made the pledge on Thursday shortly after his inauguration by the State Chairman of the APC, Hon. Chris Etta, in Calabar, assuring party faithful that his leadership would focus on rebuilding trust and consolidating the party’s strength across the local government area.
“My sole responsibility here is to foster unity. How can we forge ahead if we are divided? We can only win when we reconsolidate and forge a common front,” he said.
He emphasized that bridge-building would remain central to his leadership, stressing that he would not inherit political grudges but would instead work to reconcile all members for the collective interest of the party.
“As party chairman of APC in Etung, mending bridges remains core. I will not inherit anybody’s enemies. In the course of my peace campaigns, do not feel any grouse if you see me with someone you are not too friendly with. The party is for all of us,” Ndum stated.
The new chairman called for cooperation from party members and expressed gratitude to those who supported his emergence, particularly the Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, whom he described as a steadfast friend who stood by him throughout the process. He also appreciated the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, for his encouragement and personal support.
Ndum further acknowledged other supporters, including the Councillor representing Bendeghe-Ekiem Ward, Hon. Bitty Tangban; the Legal Adviser of Etung Local Government Council, Barr. Daniel Mgbe; and the Supervisor for Due Process, Hon. Bitty Obibia, among others, for finding time to grace the occasion of his inauguration.
He assured party stakeholders that his leadership would build on the strong foundation already laid by the party’s leadership, urging members to close ranks and work together to strengthen the APC in Etung.
In their separate remarks, prominent Etung leaders, including the Member representing Etung State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Kingsley Ntui Isong; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk; Special Adviser to the Governor, Barr. Gilbert Agbor; Vice Chairman of Etung, Hon. Assam Amba, immediate past House of Assembly member, Hon. Chris Njar Mbu-Ogar; former APC State Chairman, Hon. Etim John; and former Etung Council Chairman, Hon. (Dr.) Kuti Inok, commended Ndum’s emergence.
They described him as a dependable party man capable of uniting members and strengthening grassroots structures, expressing optimism that his leadership would further consolidate the party’s fortunes in Etung and position it for victory in the 2027 general elections.
Kingsley Agim
