By Kelvin Ololo
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Cross River State has received a major political boost with the defection of Mr. Patrick Solomon, the 2023 governorship candidate of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), who said his decision was anchored on conviction and a desire to advance People-centered governance.
Solomon formally declared for the SDP Tuesday 6, January 2026 at the party’s secretariat along IBB Way, Calabar Municipality, where party leaders, supporters, and members of the public gathered to witness the event. He described the move as a defining phase in his political journey, shaped by consultations, careful reflection, and sustained engagement with the yearnings of Cross Riverians.
Speaking on his choice of platform, Solomon maintained that the SDP’s social democratic philosophy resonated with his long held values of equity, accountability, and social justice, saying the party provided a credible framework for tackling the state’s socio-economic challenges through transparent leadership, inclusive policies, and responsive governance.
Expressing reasons behind his move, he reiterated that his defection was not driven by personal ambition but by a belief in politics as a vehicle for positive change. urging youths, women, professionals, and working families to remain actively involved in the political process to achieve a meaningful development in the state.
He said, “rebuilding Cross River State required deliberate efforts to strengthen public institutions, invest in human capital development, and expand citizen participation in governance.”
He shared concern on issues bothering policy implementation in the state, weak local government administration and federal engagement, saying “Cross River State needs strategic positioning and effective representation at the national level, competence, policy clarity, and constructive collaboration are essential for strengthening the state’s voice within the federal structure and advancing its interests.”
While welcoming him, the SDP State Chairman Apostle Stella Archibong, who was represented by the Vice Chairman of the party, Dr. Ekwom Silas, said Solomon’s return strengthened the party’s reform-driven agenda and reflected growing confidence in the SDP as a platform for purposeful leadership. He encouraged him to fully align with the party’s vision, stating that “political success is built on ideas, organization, and commitment, as well as resources.”
Party leaders and members drawn from the three Senatorial districts have described the defection as timely and strategic while expressing optimism that the defection would contribute significantly to building a credible alternative political force focusing on governance reforms and sustainable development in Cross River State.
Mr. Patrick Solomon was represented at the event by Ambassador Kennedy Nsan.
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