…. Calls for People Centred Governance

By Ike Uchechukwu, Calabar

The 2023 governorship candidate of the National Rescue Movement in Cross River State, Mr Patrick Solomon, has defected to the Social Democratic Party, describing the move as a principled step toward promoting inclusive governance, accountability and people centred development in the state.

Solomon announced his defection at the SDP Secretariat along IBB Way in Calabar Municipality, in the presence of party leaders, supporters and residents.

He described the decision as a defining moment in his political journey, saying it followed extensive consultation, reflection and engagement with the aspirations of the people of Cross River State.

Solomon said Cross Riverians deserve a political platform that genuinely reflects shared values of social justice, inclusive governance and sustainable development, adding that his choice of the SDP aligns with his long standing commitment to equity and public accountability.

He noted that the SDP’s social democratic ideology offers a credible framework for addressing the state’s socio economic challenges through transparent governance, equitable opportunities and responsive leadership.

According to him, strengthening institutions, prioritising human capital development and deepening citizen participation are critical to achieving long term prosperity in the state.

Reflecting on governance experiences in Cross River State, Solomon stressed the need for policy implementation that balances standards with social impact. Using the education sector as an example, he called for reforms that combine regulatory oversight with transitional support for affected schools and families to avoid disruption of learning outcomes.

He also highlighted the need to strengthen local government administration, particularly in recruitment and human resource management. Solomon advocated transparent and merit based processes supported by institutional safeguards to restore public confidence and improve grassroots service delivery.

On federal engagement, he emphasised the importance of strategic positioning and effective representation in advancing the interests of Cross River State at the national level, noting that collaboration, competence and policy clarity are essential to strengthening the state’s voice within the federal system.

Addressing public trust, Solomon called for improved communication between government, civil society and citizens, stressing that sustained dialogue and openness are key to responsive governance and social cohesion.

He reaffirmed that his decision to join the SDP was driven by conviction rather than personal ambition, describing it as an affirmation of his values and belief in politics as a tool for positive change.

Solomon urged youths, women, professionals and working families to remain actively involved in the political process, noting that meaningful development requires collective participation and shared responsibility.

He was represented at the event by Ambassador Kennedy Nsan.

Welcoming Solomon to the party, the State Chairman of the SDP, Apostle Stella Archibong, expressed confidence that his entry would strengthen the party’s reform agenda in Cross River State.

Archibong, who was represented by the party’s Vice Chairman, Central, Dr Ekwom Silas, said the defection reflects growing confidence in the SDP as a platform for purposeful leadership and pledged the party’s commitment to moving Cross River State forward.

Party members from the three senatorial districts described the defection as timely, expressing optimism that it would help build a strong alternative political platform focused on governance reforms and sustainable development in the state.