Communiqué by the Enlarged APC Chieftains in Akamkpa Local Government Area On the Consideration of Chairmanship for Akamkpa Local Government Council
In recognition of the upcoming leadership primary for Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, we, the chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akamkpa under the aegis of APC Victory and Success Support Group have convened to deliberate on the critical needs of our constituency at this juncture. While we have unwavering respect for the women in our midst and acknowledge their potential in governance, we believe that the unique challenges facing our local government require leadership that is specifically equipped to handle the pressing realities of today. It is, therefore, our considered position that the timing for a woman to serve as chairman is inopportune given the present circumstances.
1. Volatile Security System: A Call for a Brave Leader
Akamkpa faces an unprecedented level of volatility in its security environment. The complexities of maintaining law and order in the face of growing unrest demand a leader who can respond with both bravery and tenacity. The leader we need at this moment is one who can confront these challenges head-on, make swift and decisive security-related decisions, and restore confidence among the people. While we do not doubt the courage of our womenfolk, the gravity of the current security situation calls for someone with a proven track record in such volatile environments.
2. High Incidence of Cultism: Daring the System
Cultism has permeated several facets of our society, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. Addressing this menace requires a chairman who is not only audacious but also resolute in dismantling the structures that enable cult-related activities. This is not a battle that can be won through rhetoric alone. It requires a leader who will dare the system, confront entrenched interests, and neutralize these criminal networks. Such a leader must have the grit to face down threats and the stamina to endure the long and often dangerous process of rooting out cultism.
3. Kidnapping: A Need for Unyielding Resolve
Kidnapping has become a scourge that terrorizes our communities, affecting the everyday lives of citizens. Confronting this evil requires more than token gestures—it demands a leader with the sheer will to challenge the status quo and confront the perpetrators without hesitation. The time for appeasement or hesitation has passed. What Akamkpa requires now is a leader who can inspire confidence through strength, who can take the fight to the kidnappers and restore peace and normalcy to our communities.
4. Drug Abuse: A Leader Ready to Take Action
The pervasive spread of drug abuse, particularly among the youth, is a ticking time bomb that threatens to unravel the social fabric of our community. A leader who takes office at this time must be willing to roll up their sleeves and work tirelessly to implement not only punitive measures but also meaningful rehabilitation initiatives. The task ahead is enormous and requires an individual who is prepared to work round the clock to eradicate this scourge from our midst. Akamkpa needs a leader who can take immediate and decisive action to curb drug abuse before it engulfs the community.
5. Akamkpa Needs a Reformer: The Call for a Dogged Leader
The docility that has characterized the political and economic environment in Akamkpa is a cause for concern. Our local government needs more than just political leadership—it needs reform. At this critical juncture, a dogged and visionary reformer is required to revitalize both the political and economic structures of Akamkpa. The reforms that are necessary to put Akamkpa back on the path to progress require a leader with the grit and determination to challenge the existing order and bring about meaningful change.
6. Balancing the Narrative: Akamkpa is Not Defined by Social Vices
It is important to clarify that this communiqué does not seek to paint Akamkpa as a community deeply rooted in social vices and negative trends. Rather, it highlights the urgency of addressing the challenges that have recently taken root. These challenges, left unaddressed, will only further erode the gains we have made. We believe Akamkpa has the potential for greatness, but it will take strong leadership to harness that potential and steer the local government toward a brighter future.
7. Womenfolk: Acknowledging Their Strength and Potential
We unequivocally acknowledge the strength, capability, and potential of the women in Akamkpa. This communiqué is not an indictment of their qualifications or abilities. We hold our womenfolk in high esteem, and we recognize their contributions to both governance and societal development. However, the unique circumstances confronting Akamkpa at this time require a specific kind of leadership—one that is equipped to tackle the immediate and pressing challenges we face.
8. Restoring Normalcy as a Precondition for Seamless Female Leadership
Our position is grounded in the belief that the restoration of normalcy and stability in Akamkpa is a precondition for future female leadership. Once we have confronted and overcome the security, social, and economic challenges currently facing the local government, we will be in a position to embrace seamless leadership transitions that will undoubtedly see women ascend to the highest levels of governance. Now, more than ever, we must focus on stabilizing the political landscape to make room for future progress.
9. Urgency of the Situation: Time for Decisive Action
The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. Akamkpa requires decisive action and firm leadership to tackle the issues that have been festering over the years. There is no room for experimentation at this critical moment. The security, economic, and social challenges facing our local government demand a leadership that is firm, experienced, and ready to act without delay. For this reason, we believe that the choice of leadership at this time should reflect the seriousness of the issues we face.
10. Strength in Political Stability
Political stability is crucial in times of uncertainty. A strong leader who commands respect and inspires confidence is essential for maintaining peace and progress in Akamkpa. Our local government cannot afford the potential risks associated with untested leadership. It is paramount that the chairmanship be held by an individual who has both the experience and the tenacity to steer Akamkpa through these turbulent times and toward a future of stability and growth.
11. The Ethical Responsibility in Leadership Selection
As custodians of the political future of Akamkpa, we have an ethical responsibility to ensure that the choice of leadership is one that is in the best interest of the people. We must act with integrity, putting the welfare and safety of our community first. This responsibility compels us to support a leader who can rise to the challenges we face, lead with distinction, and lay the foundation for a future where women can seamlessly ascend to leadership roles.
12. A Call for Unity and Support
In conclusion, we call on all stakeholders in Akamkpa—our fellow APC chieftains, political actors, and the wider community—to unite in support of the leadership selection process that prioritizes the security, stability, and progress of our local government. We remain committed to seeing a woman lead Akamkpa in the near future, but for now, we must address the immediate needs of our people. Together, we can work towards a more secure, prosperous, and inclusive Akamkpa.
Signed,
Names of APC Chieftains
Ntufam Roland Itambu
Obod Cletus Ikey
Charity Orok
Ntui Sylvanus
Patrick Ekuri
Eno Usang
Asuquo Ndifon
Veronica Ogar
