Ndifon Joseph – Calabar
In order to clear the air on recent developments in the party, the newly appointed Acting Chairman of the Labour Party (LP) in Cross River State, Mr. Eugene Bessong Obia, has shed light on the recent developments within the party at both the national and state levels.
Mr. Obia gave the exposition on July 27, 2024, in Calabar, during an interactive session with newsmen on the state of affairs of the party in the state.
Obia’s appointment in the aftermath of the 2023 General Elections comes as a relief for the Labour Party, which has been embroiled in internal crises and external challenges. At the national level, the party is entangled in a crisis regarding the office of the National Chairman, and in the state, allegations of misconduct have created a tumultuous environment.
Acknowledging these issues, the Acting Chairman expressed confidence in the party’s ability to overcome them through collective effort and decisive action.
“The Labour Party recently navigated through a challenging period, particularly with the controversies surrounding the office of the National Chairman. It is crucial that we address these issues with a united front and commitment to our core values.”
On the suspension of the former chairman amid allegations of embezzlement and anti-party activities, Mr. Obia vowed to restore the party’s integrity and build a transparent and accountable leadership structure.
“Issues of embezzlement and corruption are capable of straining the goodwill and legitimacy of any political party. We are committed to a transparent and accountable administration, which shall be the cornerstone of my administration.”
In light of the recent distribution of palliatives to political parties in the state, he highlighted the importance of equitable distribution of resources and applauded the Special Adviser on Inter-Party Affairs for her transparent distribution.
“The recent distribution of palliatives to political parties by the Special Adviser on Inter-Party Affairs, Hon. Nkoyo Otu, has been adjudged as the most transparent in recent times. Her method is in consonance with the philosophy of the Labour Party, a party that believes resources should get to those who need them most and are not manipulated for political gain.”
He also articulated the party’s position on the proposed nationwide protest, emphasizing the importance of addressing the underlying issues driving the protest.
“We support the right to peaceful protest as a cornerstone of our democracy. However, it is crucial for the government to address the root causes of these protests through constructive dialogue and engagement with stakeholders. We will continue to champion the rights of the people while seeking sustainable solutions.”
The recent landmark Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy received praise from the Acting Chairman, who described it as a victory for democracy and grassroots governance.
“The recent Supreme Court landmark judgment on local government autonomy is an achievement for our democracy, as it highlights the importance of grassroots governance and the need for local governments to function independently. We call on all stakeholders to collaborate to enhance local governance.”
Commenting on the outstanding performance of the party’s elected officials, particularly the Executive Governor of Abia State, H.E. Alex Oti, the House of Representatives member representing Odukpani/Calabar Municipal Federal Constituency, Hon. Bassey Akiba, and the member of the Yala I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly (CRSHA), Hon. Brian Odey, Mr. Obia stated:
“Our elected officials have all demonstrated exceptional performance and dedication to service. The Executive Governor of Abia State, H.E. Alex Oti, the House of Representatives member representing Odukpani/Calabar Municipal Federal Constituency, Hon. Bassey Akiba, and the member of the Yala I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Brian Odey, have been instrumental in promoting our party’s values and delivering on their promises.”
Looking ahead, he assured members and supporters of the Labour Party’s readiness to clinch the presidential and governorship seats and win additional seats in both the national and state houses of assemblies in Nigeria.
“The Labour Party is fully prepared to reclaim both the presidential and governorship seats as well as majority seats in both the national and state houses of assemblies in Nigeria. This is feasible because it’s only the Labour Party that has what it takes to solve the myriad of problems bedeviling Nigeria. Our focus is on grassroots mobilization and inclusive governance.”
Concluding his address, Mr. Obia outlined the party’s vision, stressing the need for party members and supporters to remain steadfast and committed towards a common goal of a prosperous Nigeria.
“The road ahead requires strategic planning and a commitment to governance and a political environment that truly represents the people’s interest. I urge all party members and supporters to stay dedicated to our shared vision of a prosperous and equitable Nigeria,” he concluded.