"We Will Turn Cross River Into a Construction Site" – Arthur Jarvis Unveils Job Creation Agenda

By Ndifon Joseph — 

The Governorship Candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) for Cross River State, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, has pledged to embark on massive infrastructural development and create employment opportunities across the state if elected governor.

He made the declaration on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Betem Community in Biase Local Government Area while receiving a large number of defectors from various political parties across Ehom Ward into the PDP.

Addressing party supporters and the new entrants, the PDP standard-bearer assured them that everyone joining the party would enjoy equal rights, opportunities, and privileges, emphasizing that his administration would be driven by inclusive governance and tangible development.

"As you have all joined our big family, the PDP, have it at the back of your minds that we are now one family with equal rights and privileges. Together, we will turn Cross River State into a construction site and create job opportunities for our people."

The event witnessed the defection of several notable political figures, including Mrs. James Arikpo, widely acknowledged as the first person to introduce the APC into the ward. 

She attributed her decision to join the PDP to rising unemployment, widespread hardship, and what she described as the inability of the current APC administration to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach the grassroots.

Similarly, Dr. Abinz Otoy, a former House of Assembly aspirant on the platform of the ADC, said he and his supporters decided to "return home" to the PDP because they believe it remains the only political party with a practical blueprint to address the developmental challenges confronting the state and the nation at large.

Also speaking, Prof. Essien Ekpenyong, who defected from the NDC, expressed delight at rejoining the PDP, “It is my pleasure this afternoon to return to the PDP, the family where I truly belong."

Adding his voice, APC chieftain LL Cool J criticized his former party for what he described as its inability to fulfill campaign promises.

"The PDP is the most trustworthy political party we have in Nigeria. They make promises and keep them, unlike the APC, which has become known for failing to deliver on many of its campaign promises."

Earlier, the Cross River State Secretary of the PDP, Chief Joe Obi Bisong, who received the defectors on behalf of the State Chairman, Barr. Vena Ikem, describing their decision as timely.

"The decision you have taken today is timely and a great one. We welcome you wholeheartedly into the People's Democratic Party."

The event attracted party leaders, including the PDP Candidate for Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency, Barr. Bassey O. Bassey; the House of Assembly Candidate for Biase State Constituency, Pst. Obia Ikika; the party's Akpabuyo House of Assembly Candidate, Mr. Austin Patron; the South-South PDP Zonal Ex Officio, Mr. Ekpah Fidelis; the State Financial Secretary, Dr. Edadi Chris; the State Assistant Youth Leader (South), Mr. Effiom Attoe; the Ward Chairman, Mr. Agbor Gabriel; alongside other party stalwarts, supporters, women, and youth groups. 

Sir Archibong's background in the private sector distinguishes him; this is because his experience in managing businesses, creating employment opportunities, attracting investment, and delivering results has equipped him with the leadership acumen needed to stimulate economic growth and restore public confidence in governance.

With unemployment, economic stagnation, and infrastructure deficits remaining major concerns, his administration would prioritize road construction, public infrastructure, and job creation as key drivers of economic recovery and inclusive development across the state.