By Milcah Tanimu
The crisis within the Edo State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) has deepened, following the rejection of the Mrs. Elizabeth Ativie-led caretaker committee by the party’s gubernatorial candidate, Barr. Olumide Akpata. Instead, Akpata maintains that Comrade Kelly Ogbaloi remains the legitimate state chairman.
This dispute follows the national chairman of the party, Barr. Julius Abure’s decision on May 27 to dissolve the Kelly Ogbaloi-led state executive committee, citing the expiration of its tenure. Abure then appointed a 17-member caretaker committee, chaired by Mrs. Ativie.
During an enlarged meeting of the party, attended by chairmen and secretaries from the 18 local government areas, Akpata asserted that there was no legal basis for Ogbaloi’s removal. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the rule of law, stating, “I am a lawyer and have practiced for 30 years and also a President of the Bar. In this situation, you follow the rules.”
Akpata highlighted that no official communication had been received indicating Ogbaloi’s removal, and he stressed the necessity of maintaining the status quo until a legal directive is issued. He remarked, “The best practice is to maintain the status quo until there is a legal directive to the contrary. I am aligning with legitimacy and the law is with Ogbaloi.”
Akpata further mentioned that a legal case regarding the chairmanship is ongoing at the Federal High Court. He criticized the internal leadership crisis, describing it as a distraction and expressed concern that it has made the party a subject of ridicule.
Despite the turmoil, Akpata remains confident that the leadership crisis will not impact his chances in the upcoming election. He stated, “It won’t affect my chances in the election. I don’t think any voter in Benin City or other parts of the state would say ‘I won’t vote for Akpata or Labour Party because they are quarreling’. Voters would only listen to the message Akpata has for them and if they are convinced, they will vote for me.”
In conclusion, Akpata reaffirmed his support for Kelly Ogbaloi as the legitimate chairman of the Labour Party in Edo State, based on the current legal framework and procedures.
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