By: Emmanuel Abi Couson
As the local government election in Akwa ibom state draws closer, a socio-political group, the Ibesikpo Asutan Alliance for Justice and Equity (IAAJE), has raised an alarm over what they describe as an “unprecedented level of desperation” by Hon. Emman Obot, a former House of Representatives member.
The group alleges that Obot is attempting to forcefully impose his wife, Mrs. Goodness Emman Obot, as the running mate to the PDP Consensus Chairmanship aspirant, Hon. Edidiong Inyang, in the October local government election.
In a press statement jointly signed by its National Chairman, Obong AniekanAbasi Umoh, and Secretary, Alphonsus Ekanem Esq which made available to Journalists in Uyo on Thursday, the group expressed their dismay over the unfolding scenario.
They argued that Hon. Emman Obot should be focusing on galvanizing support for the ARISE agenda of Governor Umo Eno, rather than pursuing what they see as a selfish and distracting interest.
The statement noted that Obot’s actions could sow discord within the local government area and, if not checked, could potentially undermine the unity and progress of the entire Ibesikpo Asutan.
Part of the statement read: “Hon. Emman Obot’s insistence on imposing his wife as the running mate for the PDP Consensus Chairmanship aspirant in Ibesikpo Asutan, Hon. Edidiong Inyang, is not only egocentric but also poses a significant risk to the harmony of Ibesikpo Asutan.
“It is public knowledge that there are numerous tested and trusted women within the PDP who have laboured for the success of our party and deserve recognition and reward.
“Mrs. Goodness Emman Obot and even Hon. Emman Obot himself, on the other hand, have not contributed politically and should not be forced upon the people. In clear terms, the people of Ibesikpo Asutan have rejected Emman Obot’s choice”
IAAJE cited the biblical principle of a time for sowing and a time for harvest, asserting that Mrs. Rosemary Emman Obot has not “sown” politically.
They urged the party and stakeholders to consider the broader implications of endorsing her as the running mate, stressing that the people do not support her politically.
The stakeholders, who are all loyal supporters of the PDP, emphasized that fairness and equity demand that most qualified, popular and eligible person’s from the ward be allowed to compete for the top job. They believe that this will prevent violence and unrest among stakeholders who oppose imposition and handpicking
The group used the occasion to express delight at the adoption of Hon. Edidiong Inyang, popularly known as Murphy, as the PDP Consensus Chairmanship aspirant.
While commending the party, stakeholders, groups, as well as the sons and daughters of Ibesikpo Asutan for their overwhelming support for Hon. Inyang, the group pledged to mobilize support for the PDP in the forthcoming council polls and the ARISE agenda.
A leaked document had revealed a shocking plot at a recent meeting, where party leaders allegedly conspired to impose Hon. Effiong Okon Akpan, also known as ‘Udo Imo,’ as the proposed Executive Chairman.
The document, which surfaced at a recent meeting, reveals that Hon. Effiong Okon Akpan, also known as ‘Udo Imo,’ was being pushed for the position of Executive Chairman. Akpan previously served as a councilor in 1999.
The names mentioned in the document include Mrs. Goodness Emmanuel Obot, wife of a former House of Representatives member, as the proposed Vice Chairman, and former House of Assembly member Hon. Eyakeno Etukudo as a State party officer.
