In recent weeks, there have been troubling insinuations regarding the formation of the Interim Executive Committee of the Ogun State Labour Party. Some individuals have attempted to portray our committee as a group merely driven by lust for political power, eager to engage in transactional politics akin to the prevailing state executive committee. It is essential to address these misconceptions head-on, as they overlook the core values and genuine intentions that fuel our mission.
First and foremost, let us be clear:
1. The emergence of the Interim Executive Committee is not about seeking power for personal gain or aligning ourselves with the unethical practices that have tainted our political landscape. Our formation is rooted in a collective aspiration for change, accountability, and representation of the true voices of the people we serve. We are dedicated to building a party that prioritizes the interests of the community over the ambitions of a select few.
2. This committee is composed of individuals who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the principles of social justice, economic equity, and grassroots participation. We understand the importance of a party that stands for the people, not just for those in positions of authority. Our goal is to disrupt the status quo, not to reinforce it. We are focused on cultivating a political environment that rejects transactional politics, where decisions are made behind closed doors and the needs of the populace are secondary to personal ambitions.
3. Moreover, the insinuation that our work is merely a stepping stone to power undermines the genuine sacrifices made by many within our ranks. Each member of the Interim Executive Committee is motivated by a vision for a better future, one that is built on transparency, integrity, and mutual respect. We are here to serve, not to be served. It is our collective responsibility to create a party that embodies these ideals.
4. The cynicism that questions our motives does a disservice to the hard work and dedication of our members who tirelessly advocate for the rights and well-being of our constituents. We must remain united in our mission and committed to our founding principles. Our party stands as a beacon of hope for those disillusioned by the politics of the past, and we cannot allow the skepticism of a few to derail our purpose.
5. Let us transform these challenges into opportunities for dialogue and growth. Instead of succumbing to negative narratives, we should engage with the community, articulate our vision, and demonstrate the integrity and commitment that sets us apart.
6. The truth of the matter is not found in the shadows of speculation but in our actions and our unwavering commitment to the people of Ogun State. We are not here to perpetuate political games; we are here to forge a new path—one that prioritizes the needs of the many over the ambitions of the few, who perpetuated themselves in office after the expiration of their political mandate.
7. The truth of the matter is that whatever they do in that office till now is illegal, null and void. For avoidance of doubt, before the Stakeholders meeting at Fajol Castle Hotel Ìbarà GRA was held, Barr. Ibiayo was threatening to go to court and informed the whole world that their tenure was over, but immediately reconciliation was made, he said they were just being inaugurated as their mandate had just been kickstarted.
8. As against this notion, it was stated in their letter of appointment that their renewal starts with immediate effect which ended by April 18th, 2024. Their continuous stay in office is an aberration of both moral and legal standing and not tenable in any sane democracy.
9. On the contrary, local government Chairmen, Secretaries and members of the state Excos have the legal grounds to institute the doctrine of necessity and constitute an Interim Executive Committee as all politics is local.
10. You cannot continually impose people against the party structures that ought to have been built from ward up to the national level. This was the same reason why the former APC Chairman, Adams Oshiomole was removed from the ward level and he remained so despite all powers arrogated to him.
11. Finally, let us continue this journey together with integrity and purpose as the CTC was not only sacked, but cannot stand because they lacked the mandate to do so.
In solidarity,
Apagun Olaolu Samuel Babatunde
