Calabar–Eteng Eteng has been elected as the new State Coordinator of Partners for Peace (P4P) Network, Cross River Chapter, following a tightly contested election held on Friday at the organization’s secretariat in Calabar NEGROIDHAVEN can report authoritatively.
The election, initially scheduled for February but postponed twice due to administrative delays and low candidate turnout, saw Eteng defeat his sole opponent, Careen Nkereuwem, by a narrow margin of 12 votes to 10. Other elected officials include: Linda Atti-Onukak (Treasurer) – 15 votes, and Peaceful Joseph (Financial Secretary) – 18 votes.
The positions of Secretary and Research & Documentation Officer remain vacant due to disqualifications and lack of candidates, prompting calls for a bye-election.
A five-member Electoral Committee, chaired by Dr. Efio-Ita Nyok, enforced strict eligibility criteria, including: Financial compliance and active participation in P4P activities, demonstrated knowledge of P4P’s strategic plans and Niger Delta peacebuilding, disqualification of outgoing Secretary Arit Ukpong for exceeding tenure limits under Section 6.6 of the P4P Charter.
Of 58 registered members, only 16 were eligible to vote, with organizational members granted double votes. Total votes cast numbered 22.
Eteng Eteng pledged inclusive leadership and praised Nkereuwem’s sportsmanship. Dr. Nyok commended the election’s transparency but flagged low volunteer interest, attributing it to inadequate incentives.
The Committee noted low voter and candidate turnout, urging the new EXCO to: conduct bye-elections to fill vacant seats. Advocate for volunteer incentives to boost participation.
Oath of Office was administered by P4P’s National Secretary, Dr. Moses Abang who sits on the Central Working Committee, CWC.
The new EXCO assumes responsibilities immediately after swearing-in according to P4P’s charter and the electoral guidelines.
