Asuquo Cletus
The 2023 governorship candidate of the National Rescue Movement in Cross River State, Patrick Solomon, has defected to the Social Democratic Party, citing the need for people-centred, inclusive and accountable governance in the state.
Solomon, who was represented at the event by Ambassador Kennedy Nsan, announced his defection on Tuesday at the SDP Secretariat along IBB Way, Calabar Municipality, in the presence of party leaders, supporters and members of the public.
Explaining his decision, Solomon said the move followed wide consultations, deep reflection and engagement with the aspirations of Cross Riverians, stressing that the state required a political platform committed to social justice and sustainable development.
โCross Riverians deserve a political platform that genuinely reflects our shared values of inclusive governance, social justice and public accountability,โ he said, adding that the SDPโs social democratic ideology aligns with his long-standing commitment to equity and transparent leadership.
The former governorship hopeful said the partyโs ideology offered practical solutions to the stateโs socio-economic challenges through strengthened institutions, human capital development and active citizen participation.
He identified education and local government administration as key areas requiring reforms, noting that policies must balance regulatory standards with social impact to avoid disrupting public services.
According to him, recruitment and human resource processes at the local government level must be transparent and merit-based to restore public confidence and improve service delivery at the grassroots.
Solomon also called for effective federal engagement to advance Cross River Stateโs interests, emphasising the need for competence, strategic collaboration and clear policy direction in national affairs.
Addressing public trust, he urged sustained dialogue between government, civil society and citizens, describing open communication as essential for responsive governance and social cohesion.
Reaffirming his resolve, the former gubernatorial hopeful said his defection was driven by conviction rather than personal ambition, describing politics as a tool for positive change.
He called on youths, women and professionals to remain actively involved in the political process, noting that meaningful development requires collective responsibility.
Welcoming him into the party, the Cross River State Chairman of the SDP, Apostle Stella Archibong represented by Dr Ekwom Silas described the defection as a boost to the partyโs reform agenda in the state.
He said the party remained committed to offering purposeful leadership capable of addressing the stateโs developmental challenges.
He urged Solomon to fully integrate into the party, noting that political success depended on ideas, organisation and commitment.
Party members from the three senatorial districts described the defection as timely, expressing optimism that it would strengthen the SDPโs push for governance reforms and sustainable development in Cross River State.
