By Agba Atuabo – Calabar.
The Chairman of the newly constituted Caretaker Committee of the Labour Party (LP) in Cross River State, Comrade John Ushie, has addressed the ongoing leadership dispute in the party, stating that the tenure of the outgoing chairman, Mr. Ogar Osim, has expired, emphasizing that the position is tenure-bound.
Ushie made this clarification on September 18, 2024, during a press conference organized by the State Caretaker Committee at AnchorVino Hotel, Asari Eso Layout, Calabar.
In his address, Ushie stated, “This press conference is intended to introduce the new leadership of the Labour Party in Cross River State under my stewardship, as there is an urgent need to reposition the party at all levels.”
“I would like to advise everyone that any dealings related to party matters with the former leadership are done at one’s own risk. Ogar Osim was a product of the Abure leadership, which expired in June 2024, as confirmed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) through the non-recognition of his Executive Committee,” Ushie added.
On the upcoming local government council elections, Ushie called on party stakeholders to sponsor viable candidates for the elections, saying, “I urge stakeholders to seize the opportunity and sponsor strong candidates for the chairmanship and councillorship positions, as the Labour Party will fully participate and is prepared to win. The last election was an eye-opener.”
The Special Adviser on Inter-Party Affairs to the Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Nkoyo Otu, also criticized the previous leadership, stating, “Ogar Osim and his allies opposed my appointment as S.A. on Inter-Party Affairs, and I was unfairly suspended despite multiple appeals.”
“I stand here today because I believe in justice, equity, and fairness. The establishment of the new caretaker committee is a major relief for the party, and nothing can stop this forward momentum. Ogar Osim’s tenure is over,” she asserted.
Representing the party’s elders, Chief Ntete Bassey-Duke from Akpabuyo urged the new committee to focus on rebuilding the party, stating, “The committee should channel its energy into revitalizing the party rather than dwelling on Ogar Osim, as that chapter is closed.”
Earlier, a key figure in the party, Hon. Alvin Ochang, encouraged party members and supporters to unite for the good of the party and the nation. He said, “I believe everyone here is feeling the strain of the hardships caused by other political parties. Some of you may have even trekked to this press conference because of the high cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).”
“With this in mind, the Labour Party is determined to reverse the negative trends that began in 1999, especially under the current administration. I welcome you to this briefing and assure you that we will take the Labour Party forward with the strong leadership of the caretaker committee,” he concluded.
