Calabar — The Labour Party (LP) in Cross River state, under the leadership of Ogar Osim, has officially affirmed Shedrach ‘Papa’ Ikpeme as their candidate for the upcoming local government elections in Calabar Municipality. This affirmation took place on Tuesday, 15 October 2024, during a well-attended party convergence featuring members of the Party’s State Executive Committee (EXCO) and other stakeholders NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.
Ikpeme’s emergence as the Labour Party’s flagbearer came after his opponents in the race voluntarily withdrew, clearing the path for him. These withdrawals occurred in the spirit of unity, with the former aspirants pledging their support for Ikpeme ahead of the 2 November, 2024 elections. Ikpeme, while addressing the gathering, expressed his readiness to serve the people, promising to deliver impactful governance that will uplift the residents of Calabar Municipality.
“I am ready to serve the people and bring about more prosperity in Calabar Municipality,” Ikpeme stated. “The people deserve to enjoy the dividends of democracy without having to worry about where their next meal is coming from or how to pay their rent.”
In his remarks, Ogar Osim, the Chairman of the Labour Party in Cross River state, urged party members and the general public to come out in large numbers to support Ikpeme on election day. He emphasized that the Labour Party remains committed to the welfare of the people and called for collective action to secure victory in the forthcoming polls.
Recall that Ikpeme’s candidacy for the chairmanship of Calabar Municipality became more apparent following the withdrawal of two major rivals. Hon. Edet Omin of Ward 10 and Mr. Ita Ayi, the Personal Assistant to Rt. Hon. Bassey Akiba from Ward 8, both stepped down from the race, paving the way for Ikpeme to become the Labour Party’s presumptive candidate.
Hon. Edet Omin officially withdrew his candidacy on 30 September, while Mr. Ita Ayi followed suit on October 1, citing internal party crises as a reason for his decision. Ayi stressed the need for reconciliation and unity within the Labour Party before engaging in leadership contests. On the other hand, Omin noted that since both he and Ikpeme shared a common vision for the party and Calabar Municipality, he decided to support Ikpeme’s bid.
In a related development, the Labour Party received a significant legal boost following a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja on Tuesday, 8 October, 2024. Justice Emeka Nwite declared the Labour Party’s national convention, held in Nnewi in March, valid and in accordance with the laws of the country. The court also directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize and uphold the leadership of Barrister Julius Abure as the party’s National Chairman.
