By Athan Agbakwuru, Owerri
Leader of the Labour Party, LP , in Imo State, Senator Athan Achonu has reacted to the recent developments in the party’s national leadership and dispelled the speculations that the state chairman of the party, Barr. Callistus Ihejiagwa has been sacked following the stakeholders’ meeting held in Umuahia, Abia State.
In a statement issued Wednesday by Engr. Chime Nzeribe, Director-General of Senator Athan Achonu Campaign Organization, the former senator of Imo North District noted that certain individuals are falsely claiming that the State Chairman, Callistus Ihejiagwa, has ceased to hold his position following the meeting.
He said, “We categorically state that these claims are without merit. At no point during the stakeholders’ meeting, which Senator Achonu personally attended, was there any discussion regarding changes to the State Executive. The fact remains that no congress has been held, and until such a congress takes place, Callistus Ihejiagwa remains the duly State Chairman of the Labour Party in Imo State.
“Furthermore, we remind all party members that while our National Chairman, Barrister Julius Abure, continues with his legal battles, we are hopeful for a peaceful resolution to all disputes.
“Our priority is to strengthen the party, not divide it. As a key stakeholder, Barrister Abure must work with the Labour Party to ensure we emerge stronger and more united. No individual, including Barrister Abure, is greater than the Labour Party.
“Unity is essential, and our focus is on building an indomitable force capable of transforming both our state and nation.
“In Imo State, we face numerous internal and external challenges. However, it is important to note that such challenges are not unusual in a political setting. What matters is how we resolve them.
“As the Igbo adage goes, “It is only a dead man whose neck cannot be adjusted.” We must accomodate alternative voices, learn lessons and strive for peaceful resolutions to keep the party on a strong footing.”
Nzeribe stated that Senator Achonu’s leadership, will not allow the enemies of the Labour Party to prevail pointing out that any attempts to destabilize the ranks will not succeed.
“We call on all members of the Labour Party in Imo State to remain resolute and committed to supporting the leadership of Callistus Ihejiagwa until a congress is held, and any changes are made through our democratic processes.
“For the Achonu campaign, the Abure-led national executive is like the shell of the body, while the stakeholders represent the soul, neither can exist without the other. The Labour Party must find a way to come together and ensure we achieve the Nigeria of our dream, which only the Labour Party can guarantee,” he added.
He admonish the party leaders and members to focus on what truly matters which according to him is “strengthening the Labour Party to deliver the positive change our people deserve.”
