Political Rascality Unmasked: The Illegitimate Ascension of Akpeki as Acting State Chairman
By Emeka Marvel
Point-blank Magazine
Monday December 2, 2024.
In a move marred by illegality and political chicanery, Mr. Promise Ogumu, a notable figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State and a former candidate for the Ika North-East State House of Assembly in the 2023 elections, has vehemently condemned the unlawful coronation of Chief Paulinus Akpeki as acting state chairman. This brazen act is not merely an aberration; it epitomizes a flagrant breach of party regulations, thrusting the APC into a quagmire of chaos and disorder.
Ogumu, unyielding in his stance, categorically denounces Akpeki’s audacious ascension. He deems it a shocking assault on the principles of due process—a reckless gamble reflecting an insatiable hunger for power that runs counter to democratic ideals. Akpeki, currently serving as the Senatorial Chairman, wields no legitimate claim to the chairmanship while the Deputy Chairman holds office. The APC constitution lays down explicit guidelines for appointments, and to sidestep these mandates is to gnaw at the very roots of party governance.
Referencing Article 14.2(iii) of the APC constitution, Ogumu elucidates that the provision permitting two Deputy National Chairmen to step in for the National Chairman at the national level is an entirely different beast from the state structure, which recognizes only one Deputy Chairman. Akpeki’s audacity to act in the role of acting chairman borders on insanity and flies in the face of established party protocols.
Moreover, Ogumu vehemently criticizes the Delta State chapter’s State Working Committee (SWC) for their abhorrent endorsement of this unlawful appointment. Their complicity is an open showcase of constitutional lawlessness, undermining the very essence of unity the APC professes to champion. This blatant disregard for established norms is not just a procedural blunder; it could very well ignite the flames of disarray and fractiousness within the party ranks. By flouting the rules outlined in Articles 14.2(i) and (ii), the SWC exposes itself to charges of either gross incompetence or a sinister attempt to warp party regulations for self-serving ends.
As a seasoned financier of the APC, Ogumu passionately argues that the SWC’s misguided and reckless approval of Akpeki’s appointment jeopardizes the party’s political fortitude and cohesion. Rather than fortifying solidarity in the face of challenges, this act represents a regressive step—a scandalous affront to the APC constitution and a direct assault on the integrity of the party.
He reminds party members with clarity: Chief Francis Obigbor, the Deputy State Chairman, is the legitimate acting chairman during Elder Omeni Sobotie’s medical leave; thus, any claims to the contrary are nothing but deluded fabrications. Ogumu fiercely rebukes the declaration made by Valentine Onojeghuo, the State Publicity Secretary of APC Delta, branding it as unlawful and deceptive. This reckless statement is a calculated move aimed at sowing discord among the party faithful—an illustration of the ultimate irresponsibility that defines this faction of political rascality.
As Chief Akpeki continues his role as the Chairman of the Delta Central Senatorial District, Ogumu insists that he must relinquish any aspirations of seizing authority that does not belong to him. He reiterates that Chief Francis Obigbor must rightfully assume the mantle of acting chairman during Elder Sobotie’s absence, adhering strictly to Article 14.2(iii) of the APC Constitution, which designates the Deputy State Chairman for such responsibilities.
Ogumu fervently urges APC members to reject the absurdity embodied by Chief Akpeki and his sycophants. He underscores that adherence to the party’s constitution and solidarity amongst members is vital for the APC’s prosperity. The very integrity of the party hangs precariously in the balance, and it is the imperative of every true member to guard against such egregious encroachments. Political rascality will not be tolerated, and the time has come to rectify the ship before it sinks into the abyss of chaos.
