By: AMAWU Cletus Albert Amawu.
The Alvin OCHANG led Reconcilation and Peace Committee for the Labour Party (LP) in Cross River State that was constituted on 3rd April, 2023, by the National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure Esq. to mediate in the friction of the State Executive has commenced sitting today, 8th July, 2023 at the Marian Hotel in Calabar, having been Inaugurated.
Mr. Alvin, in his welcome speech to members of the Committee, reminded them of the task to unite the warring factions of Labour Party Executive in the State taking into cognisance the complaints. Hence, assuring that the Committee will be fair, objective and neutral to all the parties involved.
According to him, the Committee terms of reference amongst other things is saddled with responsibilities of:
1. To meet with aggrieved members of the Party in the State.
2. Listen to their complaints and device a way of resolving such complaints that have bedeviled the Party in the State and proffer solutions in line with the Party Constitution and
3. Make far reaching Recommendations to the National Headquarters with a view of a final resolution.
Thereafter, the Reconciliation and Peace Committee proceeded into business in two sessions by meeting with the parties concerned. The State Chairman of Labour Party (LP) Amb. Ogar Osim.
Dr. Lekam Ofem, State Publicity Secretary and now the warring faction purported State Chairman. Asuquo Etim, State Secretary and Surveyor Nkoyo Otu, State Women Leader.
Labour Party House of Representatives member for Udukpani/Calabar Municipality Federal Constituency, Hon. Bassey Akiba, was briefly in attendance as he appreciated the Committee and advised the warring faction to sheath their swords and give peace a chance to advance the party chances in future elections in the State.
Brig. Gen. Enang Essien (Rtd) said their task was a clarion call to reposition the Party and speaking from hindsight; Labour Party is the party to beat in future elections and as such, frictions are expected. Hence, man as political animal will always want opportunity to express themselves, either ways.
Committee Members in attendance at the Inaugural Sitting:
1. Alvin Ochang – Chairman
2. Brig. Gen Enang Essien (Rtd)
3. Prof. James Epoke
4. Prof. Charles O’Neil.
5. Prince Ray Atuloma.
6. Mrs. Precious Esse.
7. Mr. Dennis Odey, and
8. Hon. Ori Emanghe – Secretary.
The genesis of the crisis in the Labour Party (LP), Cross River State, is as a result of alleged financial misappropriation and autocratic leadership style.
The Committee adjourned Sitting to July 23, 2023, by 4pm prompt at same venue, Marian Hotel, Calabar.