By Our Reporter
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State have called for the reelection of incumbent chapter chairmen in seven local government areas ahead of the party’s forthcoming congresses.
The chairmen include Chief Engr Kelvin Njong of Boki, Comrade Odama Thomas Odama of Bekwarra, Sir Gerald Esin of Bakassi, Pst. Joshua Igboke of Abi, Paul Ogeh Adinye of Ogoja, Ogar Solomon of Yala and Pst. George Ejikang of Obanliku.
The stakeholders, who spoke in separate interviews, unanimously agreed that retaining the current leadership would ensure continuity, promote seamless transition and prevent unnecessary political tension within the party.
They maintained that the chairmen have served the party with dedication and commitment and possess the capacity and grassroots reach needed to strengthen the APC ahead of future elections.
According to them, the relatively young chapter chairmen represent a crop of emerging grassroots leaders who have been groomed within the party and should be given the opportunity to consolidate on the gains already recorded in their respective local government areas.
Speaking on the Bakassi endorsement, a stakeholder, Chief Emmanuel Nyong, described the chapter chairman, Sir Gerald Esin, as dedicated, straightforward and loyal to the party. He said Esin has consistently stood with party members and remains a strong supporter of Governor Bassey Otu, adding that his return would guarantee unity and continuity in Bakassi.
On Bekwarra, Chief Emmanuel Ogbang said the majority of stakeholders were in support of Comrade Odama Thomas Odama JP for a second term, describing him as a bridge builder between elders and younger politicians. He noted that Odama’s experience and loyalty to the party leadership have helped to stabilise the APC in the area.
Ogbang added that Odama has demonstrated strong administrative capacity and political maturity, qualities he said are needed as the party prepares for another round of electioneering.
Endorsing the Abi chapter chairman, Pst Joshua Igboke, party stalwart Justin Elemi said the local government needs a leader with a strong grassroots appeal and close connection with party members. He added that there was no justification for changing a winning team at a critical political period.
In Ogoja, Chief Abang Abang said stakeholders were solidly behind the reelection of Paul Ogeh Adinye, citing his loyalty to party leaders and experience in party administration.
Similarly, Stephen Adie from Obudu Urban said the re-election of George Ejikang as Obanliku chapter chairman was necessary, noting that the incumbent has remained steadfast with the APC despite opposition pressure in the past.
Boki stakeholders had earlier led the endorsements by backing the chairman of the Forum of APC Chairmen, Chief Engr Kelvin Njong, for a second term. Njong, who also serves as the Boki APC chairman and a commissioner in the Forestry Commission, was endorsed alongside the 11 ward councillors of the local government.
The endorsements were carried out by elected party officials, political appointees and party leaders across the two state constituencies in Boki Local Government Area.
The exercise was led by the member representing Boki Constituency II in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Hillary Bisong, alongside the member representing Boki Constituency I, Hon. Philip Bette Obi, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Jake Enya.
Speaking on the endorsement, Bisong, who is also the Chief Whip of the State House of Assembly, said the decision was based on Njong’s demonstrated ability to promote unity, cohesion and a stable party structure across Boki.
