By Abasi Ita
Committees overseeing the ward and local government congresses of the All Progressives Congress in Cross River State have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring a peaceful, transparent and credible exercise across the state.
Chairman of the Local Government and Ward Congress Committee, Samuel Yanap, gave the assurance during an inspection of the exercise in Calabar. He disclosed that members of the committee are liaising closely with the state executive of the party and other stakeholders to fine tune arrangements ahead of the congress.
Yanap urged party faithful to remain law abiding and united, noting that the exercise is crucial to strengthening the party’s grassroots structure.
“We are committed to peaceful and transparent congresses. I appeal to members to show love, unity and support for our great party. United we stand and divided we fall. We are on a mission to transform our state and country,” he said.
Addressing concerns about possible post congress disputes, Yanap stated that the party has established internal mechanisms to resolve disagreements, describing the APC as a family capable of settling issues amicably.
Secretary of the Appeal Committee, Paul Domseng, confirmed that the panel was on ground to receive and review petitions from any aggrieved aspirants or members.
Chairman of the Appeal Committee, Honourable Prince Ademola Adetokunbo, explained that the committee’s mandate is to ensure fair hearing in line with party guidelines. He noted that the team was deployed by the party’s national leadership to guarantee due process and internal democracy.
Adetokunbo commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for fostering unity within the party and sustaining a peaceful political environment in the state.
Chairman of the Screening Appeal Committee, Dr Ike Ukwe, said although the committee was prepared to entertain complaints, he anticipated a smooth process.
“The party has provided equal opportunity for all members. If anyone feels aggrieved, we are here to listen and ensure fairness. We expect a peaceful congress across the state,” he said.
The State APC Chairman, Ntufam Ekum Ojogu, assured that adequate security arrangements had been made in all 18 local government areas to guarantee a hitch free exercise.
“We have put necessary measures in place and engaged security agencies to maintain order. We expect a successful congress,” he stated.
The ward and local government congresses are scheduled to hold across Cross River State under the supervision of party officials and security agencies.