CURRENT REPORT BLOG the National Working Committee of the Labor Party has confirmed that Senator Athan is the rightful candidate for the upcoming gubernatorial election in IMO State on November 11th. This announcement was made in response to the acting National Publicity Secretary of the Labor Party, Biomara Bambi, who has been disputing Athan candidacy, stating that it lacks legal standing. Bambi claims that the La Media Papa faction of the party holds the legitimate leadership position at the national level. In contrast, Senator Athan asserts that Bambi may have the support of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in IMO State, aiming to disrupt the Labor Party. Athan maintains that his candidacy is valid and unaffected by any court ruling.
So, what exactly is happening within the Labor Party in IMO State, and what is the legal status of Senator Athan’s candidacy? Joining us in the studio is a lawyer and member of both the APC National Legal Team and the Labor National Legal Team, Okudeli Anoze. Thank you for joining us.
Question 1: Could you explain the situation within the Labor Party at the national level that seems to be affecting the state level? The factional Publicity Secretary claims that Senator Athan’s legal status is uncertain.
Answer 1: Thank you for having me. It’s regrettable that false information is being disseminated to the public. As of today, Senator Athan remains the officially recognized Labor Party candidate for the IMO State gubernatorial elections scheduled for November 2023. His name has been submitted to INEC, and it has been published by INEC. The Federal High Court has declared Senator Athan Achonu as the Labor Party candidate, and this judgment remains unchallenged. Claims of appeals and multiple cases are causing confusion, but the key fact is that Senator Athan’s candidacy is legally valid, as affirmed by the Federal High Court.
Question 2: What is your response to allegations that the APC is influencing these disputes within the Labor Party to create division?
Answer 2: From a legal perspective, these are political matters, and Senator Athan is not currently involved in any court case. The allegations of political influence should be addressed separately. What’s clear is that Senator Athan believes in his candidacy and the support he has from the people of IMO State.
Question 3: Given the divisions and legal disputes within the Labor Party, what are the party’s chances in the IMO State gubernatorial election on November 11th?
Answer 3: Labor Party has successfully connected with the people of IMO State, and its identity with the people is crucial. Democracy is about the people, and their will prevails. Despite the challenges, Labor Party has the potential to make a significant impact in the election.
Question 4: There have been concerns about violence and security during the election. What is the Labor Party doing to ensure a peaceful election, and what is your message to voters?
Answer 4: Violence has not originated from within the Labor Party, and Senator Athan has called on security forces to ensure a peaceful election. It’s important for voters to exercise their rights without fear, and we believe the government will provide adequate security. The electoral cycle in Nigeria typically sees violence before the election day, but election day itself tends to be relatively peaceful. Voters should have confidence in the security arrangements.
Question 5: Do you believe campaign grounds have been fair and conducive for all candidates?
Answer 5: So far, the Labor Party has not reported any complaints regarding campaign grounds. We expect a level playing field for all candidates.
