The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has suffered a setback as two of its chieftains have dumped the party for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing persistent internal crises and divisions within the opposition party.

Both Dr. Mkpang Coco-Bassey and Senator Gershom Bassey, who resigned from the PDP, were governorship aspirants of the party in the 2023 election in Cross River State.

In a resignation letter dated March 12, 2026 and addressed to the PDP Chairman of Ward 11 in Calabar South Local Government Area, Coco-Bassey formally announced his exit from the party.

The letter, which was copied to the PDP State Chairman, read in part: “I write to formally tender my resignation as a member of the PDP, Ward 11, Calabar South Local Government Area, Cross River State.”

Coco-Bassey, an engineer and President of the Calabar Forum in the United Kingdom, said the decision followed careful reflection.

“This decision did not come lightly. I have been a committed and faithful member of the party, contributing my time, energy and resources to its growth and success,” he stated.

He added that his resignation takes immediate effect and expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had while in the PDP.

Coco-Bassey disclosed that he intends to align with the ADC coalition associated with supporters of Peter Obi and other political actors.

Similarly, in his resignation letter addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman, Ward 9, Calabar South, Gershom Bassey, the former senator representing the Cross River State South Senatorial District, said the decision was due to persistent internal crises and unresolved conflicts within the party.

The former lawmaker, who described himself as a founding member of the PDP, lamented that the party’s divisions had weakened its unity and eroded the ideals on which it was built.

He added that it had become difficult to remain in a system that no longer reflects the principles he believes in, noting that his resignation takes immediate effect.

Both politicians are expected to align with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, which is associated with supporters of Peter Obi and other political actors.