The new leadership of the Labour Party (LP) in Edo State has vowed to secure victory in the upcoming September 21 governorship election and called for unity among its members.
The party’s Caretaker Committee Chair, Rt. Hon. (Mrs) Elizabeth Ativie, made these remarks during a press conference in Benin City on Tuesday, highlighting the challenges faced and pledging support for the party’s gubernatorial candidate, Akpata.
Advertorial
Ativie addressed concerns about attempts to oust the National Chairman, Julius Abure, dismissing them as actions of sponsored external forces aiming to destabilize the party.
She emphasized that only a National Convention has the authority to remove the National Chairman, per the party’s constitution.
“The National Chairman has achieved significant successes during his tenure,” Ativie stated.
“Criticism should be based on his accomplishments and failures, and his successes far outweigh his failures. We are aware that certain external parties, uncomfortable with the growing support for the Labour Party, are fueling these internal conflicts.”
Advertorial
She further condemned the recent invasion of the Labour Party Secretariat in Abuja, attributing it to individuals hired to undermine the party.
“The protesters were not genuine party members but were rented from a nearby market in Abuja,” she claimed.
Ativie also dismissed allegations of pursuing an “Esan agenda,” clarifying her roots and intentions.
“As someone from Uhunmwonde, the notion that I am pushing an Esan agenda is baseless. My focus is on uniting the party and securing electoral victory.”
She praised National Chairman Abure for revitalizing the party and achieving significant milestones, including the election of a governor and several National and State Assembly members.
“Under his leadership, the Labour Party has reached new heights. Those attempting to create divisions within the party should reconsider and work towards its progress.”
Regarding the claim by Kelly Ogbaloi about his continued tenure as state chairman, Ativie stated that his term had expired.
“The previous executive exceeded their six-year term limit, staying for about 12 years. Their inability to unify the party post-primary necessitated the formation of this caretaker committee.”
Ativie announced efforts to reconcile and reunite aggrieved members within a month.
She also assured collaboration with the existing campaign council, indicating possible adjustments to ensure effectiveness.
“We aim to build on the current campaign structure. If we identify any gaps in capacity, we will make necessary changes to strengthen our efforts. The Labour Party is committed to winning this election, and with the support of the masses, we will achieve this by quickly organizing our ranks.”
