GROUP RAISES ALARM OVER ALLEGED PLAN OF EMMAN OBOT TO INSTALL WIFE AS RUNNING MATE

 

By Ubong Solomon.

As the local government elections inch 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., the group expressed their dismay. 

They argued that Hon. 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 enough politically and should not be forced upon the people."

IAAJE cited the biblical principle of a time for sowing and a time for harvest, asserting that Mrs. Goodness Emman Obot has not "sown" politically. 

They urged the party and stakeholders to consider the broader implications of endorsing Obot 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 persons from the ward be allowed to compete for the top job. They observed 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 and groups in 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.