The Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the South-South region, Chief Hon. Victor T. Giadom, exuded confidence and optimism during a pivotal meeting held in Calabar, Cross River State. Gathered at the Metropolitan Hotel on Sunday, June 16, 2024, for the first APC South-South executive council meeting, Giadom set a bold agenda for the party’s future in the region, particularly focusing on reclaiming Edo State in the upcoming gubernatorial election slated for September 2024.
Addressing a room filled with party leaders and stalwarts, Giadom emphasized the paramountcy of unity among the APC’s ranks in the South-South zone, highlighting Edo State as a critical battleground where solidarity would secure victory. He stressed the urgency for leaders to set aside any internal discord and mobilize Edo’s populace effectively, rallying them around the APC’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“In this era of technological advancement, our party cannot afford to cling to outdated methods. The impending e-membership registration demands our full attention and commitment at every political level,” Giadom remarked, underlining the need for comprehensive participation across all wards and units.
The sentiments reverberated through the gathering as Senate President Chief Godswill Akpabio echoed Giadom’s call to action, assuring Cross River’s Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu, of unwavering support and solidarity. Akpabio’s spirited address resonated with resolve, promising an intensified APC presence across Edo and the entire South-South region, aiming to unseat the incumbent governor.
“For those of us from Edo and every corner of the South-South, our focus must be singular as we approach the September election. With collective effort—prayers, mobilization, and strategic campaigning—we will ensure Obaseki’s defeat,” Akpabio declared, galvanizing support for Senator Monday Okpebholo as a beacon of hope for Edo and the broader APC community in the region.
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River, buoyed by the momentum of the gathering, articulated confidence in the APC’s electoral strategy. Drawing parallels with Imo State’s recent electoral success under APC’s banner, Otu underscored the necessity of rewarding dedication within the party’s ranks through strategic appointments.
“As a region, we must ensure that deserving APC members receive critical appointments. Strengthening states without governors is crucial to our collective strength and progress. Only through unity and focused action can we overcome the challenges and propel our nation forward,” Otu affirmed, emphasizing the imperative of eradicating setbacks to foster robust growth across the South-South.
The meeting concluded with a resounding commitment from all attendees to intensify grassroots mobilization efforts, leveraging technology to expand APC’s membership base and strengthen its electoral machinery. The atmosphere was charged with optimism and determination, signaling a unified front as the APC geared up for the Edo State governorship election. Each leader departed with a renewed sense of purpose, tasked with translating their collective resolve into tangible results at the ballot box.
In the weeks following the meeting, the APC’s presence in Edo State grew more pronounced, with intensified campaign efforts and strategic alliances bolstering their prospects. The electorate observed a flurry of activities as the party sought to consolidate its base and sway undecided voters. Amidst heightened political fervor, the stage was set for a keenly contested election that would not only determine Edo State’s leadership but also serve as a litmus test for the APC’s regional influence and electoral prowess.
As September 2024 approached, all eyes remained fixed on Edo State, where the APC’s ambition to reclaim governance fueled anticipation and speculation. The outcome would not only shape the state’s political landscape but also resonate across the South-South region, where the APC aimed to consolidate its gains and expand its footprint in the pursuit of broader national objectives.
