My Removal Is Joke Taken Too Far, Impeached Cross River APC Chairman Says
The political atmosphere in Cross River State’s All Progressives Congress (APC) has boiled over after the State Executive Committee removed its chairman, Alphonsus Eba, in a dramatic vote of no-confidence that has triggered fresh divisions across the party.
Thirty out of thirty-two members of the committee reportedly backed the impeachment, citing concerns about Eba’s leadership style, financial management and what they described as an erosion of internal party democracy.
The decision follows weeks of mounting tension within the party. Local government chairpersons and secretaries had earlier taken to the streets in Calabar to protest, padlocking the state secretariat and insisting that Eba resign.
Their grievances ranged from allegations of high-handedness to claims that the chairman ran the party in a transactional manner that sidelined key stakeholders.
The protests marked one of the most visible internal revolts the state chapter has seen in recent years, signalling widespread dissatisfaction at the grassroots level.
With the chairman removed, the deputy state chairman, Ntufam Ekum Ojogu, has been appointed acting chairman pending ratification by the APC’s national leadership.
He has already assumed control of party activities, even as factions within the state try to position themselves for influence during this transitional period.
Eba, however, has dismissed the entire process, describing his impeachment as “a joke taken too far.” In a brief telephone reaction, he insisted that the move lacked legitimacy and claimed he remained the authentic state chairman.
His supporters argue that due process was not followed, while critics counter that the overwhelming vote by the State Executive Committee reflects a long-brewing rebellion that Eba could no longer survive.
The unfolding crisis has raised concerns about unity within the Cross River APC, especially as the party prepares for upcoming electoral activities.
Analysts warn that prolonged infighting could weaken its organisational strength, embolden opposition parties and undermine public confidence.
For now, the state chapter remains deeply divided, with both sides expecting the APC national leadership to intervene and bring clarity to an increasingly messy political confrontation.
