The Northern Cross River Coalition (NORTHCCO) has swiftly emerged as a formidable force within the political landscape of Cross River State, especially in the northern senatorial district. Formed with the leadership of Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo, the immediate past House of Representatives member for Bekwarra, Obudu, and Obanliku Federal Constituency, NORTHCCO was conceived with the noble aim of uniting the stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and ensuring a collective effort towards the re-election of the State Governor, Apostle Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey PhD.
This coalition, based on the principles of unity, peace, and mutual understanding, aims to solidify the APC’s influence in the Senatorial zone, with members including stakeholders and leaders from the five local government areas – Bekwarra, Obanliku, Obudu, Ogoja and Yala. More importantly, its core mission is to bring together party members, stakeholders, and local leaders to work harmoniously for the common good of the state as seen in it’s first Interactive engagement on March 2 2025 in Ogoja. With a vote of confidence in the leadership of Governor Otu and his deputy, the coalition’s formation is seen as a strategic move to consolidate the party’s base ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, the birth of NORTHCCO has not been without its controversies. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the dominant opposition party in the region, has been visibly unsettled by the sudden rise of the coalition. The unease among PDP members is evident in their frequent criticisms and jabs, a reaction to the political shockwave that NORTHCCO has unleashed in the region. The formation of this coalition signals a clear indication that the political dynamics in Cross River North are changing, and the opposition feels threatened by the growing unity within the APC ranks.
The PDP, which has historically held sway in the region, now finds itself grappling with an alliance that aims to position itself as the major political force in the district. Their reaction to NORTHCCO’s establishment is not just about a coalition being formed, but about the deep fear of losing political control in an area that has long been considered a stronghold for the opposition.
The restlessness within the PDP can be seen as a natural reaction to the shifting political tides. The unity that NORTHCCO represents and the strong endorsement of Governor Otu’s leadership further exacerbate the fears of an opposition party that has relied on disunity within the ruling APC to maintain its dominance. With an ever-growing coalition, the opposition is now faced with the challenge of not only strengthening their own base but also attempting to counter the increasing unity within the APC ranks.
What’s more, the coalition’s endorsement of the leadership of Governor Otu and his deputy has added to the urgency of the opposition’s anxiety. It’s clear that the APC is preparing itself for a stronger and more unified political front, which could prove to be a formidable challenge for the PDP in the years leading up to the 2027 elections. The PDP’s frustration is understandable, as they are not only combating a unified APC but also a coalition that appears determined to reclaim control over the region.
Despite the ongoing political tension, one cannot overlook the key underlying message from the formation of NORTHCCO. It represents the desire for change, progress, and unity, not just within the APC, but for Cross River North as a whole. As the coalition continues to grow and gain momentum, the question remains: how will the PDP adapt to this new political reality? Will they be able to unify their own forces in time to fend off the growing influence of NORTHCCO, or will they succumb to the new wave of political unity that is sweeping through the northern part of the state?
In conclusion, the formation of NORTHCCO is more than just a political move; it is a signal of change that is shaking the very foundations of the existing political structure in Cross River North. The fear and restlessness of the opposition, particularly the PDP, are a testament to the impact that this coalition has already made. Whether this newfound unity will translate into electoral success for the APC in 2027 remains to be seen, but for now, NORTHCCO has undeniably altered the political landscape of Cross River North, and the opposition is undoubtedly feeling the pressure.
