Governor of Cross River State, Prof Ben Ayade, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He announced the decision  on Thursday after a closed-door meeting with six APC governors that lasted over an hour at the executive chamber of the Governor’s Office in Calabar.

Those in attendance were governors of Ekiti, Kayode Fayemi; Jigawa, Mohammed Badaru; Yobe, Mai Mala Buni; Kebbi, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; Imo, Hope Uzodima; and Plateau, Simon Along, as well as the Minister of State for Petroleum, Timipre Sylva.

Speaking during the defection, Ayade said, “We need to join hands with President Buhari in his determination to enhance the fortunes of the country.

“I need all governors to similarly join me and understand my decision to join the APC.

“We need to work ahead with the president for the future and unity of Nigeria. We all need to sit at the same dining table with Mr Presidential to save Nigeria.

“It is my responsibility to bring back Cross River to the centre in order to enhance her fortunes.