C' River APC Congress: Crisis Looms in Abi as Stakeholders Reject Chairman’s Imposition
By Ekanem Asuquo
A crisis is reportedly brewing in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State over allegations that the Council Chairman, Hon Egbala Bassey, unilaterally imposed a Chapter Chairman ahead of the All Progressives Congress congress.
Concerned stakeholders in the area have rejected the move and appealed to Governor Bassey Otu to intervene to prevent further escalation of tensions within the party.
In a letter addressed to the State Party Executive, the stakeholders accused the Council Chairman of taking unilateral decisions that are negatively affecting the APC at both ward and chapter levels. They emphasized that Abi Local Government is not the personal estate of any individual and that decisions relating to zoning and party structure must involve broad consultation with key leaders and stakeholders across the area.
The stakeholders expressed concern over the constitution of a Chapter Zoning Committee without proper consultation, insisting that such a sensitive matter requires inclusiveness, consensus, and legitimacy. They warned that any committee formed without broad-based endorsement lacks legitimacy and may not command acceptance among party members.
The group further alleged that a similar situation occurred during the ward congress process, when the governor’s name was reportedly invoked in compiling ward lists through a non-transparent process. They noted that the governor later publicly distanced himself from the claims.
Describing the current development as intolerable, the stakeholders said it threatens the political stability Abi has enjoyed over the years. They formally rejected the alleged imposition and urged the State Party Executive to review the situation immediately.
The core concern of the stakeholders is that Pastor Joshua Igboke, the current Chapter Chairman of the APC, should be returned for a second term. Instead, they allege that Hon Egbala Bassey handpicked a new Chapter Chairman without consulting key party members.
The stakeholders stressed that they are prepared to pursue all legitimate and constitutional avenues to address the matter if urgent steps are not taken to restore due process, inclusiveness, and internal democracy within the Abi chapter. They called on the governor to intervene and ensure that the party upholds transparency and fairness in its leadership processes.
Among those raising concerns were Hon. Mrs. Ekwele Agube, Hon. Ajah Francis Ajah, Mr. Sam Egbala, Dr. Hon. Lazarus Abono, Hon. Hossana Isong, Hon. Iwara Ina, Hon. Michael Idaka, Hon. Josephine Joseph Eni, Mr. Eval Asikong, Hon. Princewill Nkanu, Mr. Gilbert Ernest, Mr. William Ogbanje, and Engr. Solomon Isogon.
