As the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepares for its forthcoming Congress, where leaders will be elected from the ward level to the national structure, it is not surprising that tensions are beginning to rise and eyebrows are being raised across the party.
Recently, I have read lengthy commentaries from certain APC stalwart who consistently parade himself as “founders” and “owners” of the party. His latest grievance is the allegation that Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, the Chief of Staff to His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, is allegedly lobbying to have his preferred candidates emerge in the coming congresses.
Let us be honest with ourselves. Those who are quickest to cry foul are often those driven by fear fear that their own preferred candidates may not prevail. This is not about morality, fairness, or internal democracy; it is about self-interest. When the political tide threatens to move against them, they suddenly discover the language of “imposition” and “party discipline.”
The truth remains simple and unavoidable, the Chief of Staff, just like every other party member including those currently complaining, has the right to political preferences. He is entitled to support candidates he believes in, candidates he trusts, and candidates he considers capable of delivering effective leadership. This is politics, not sainthood.
Calling on the Governor to “caution” the Chief of Staff for merely expressing interest is not only unnecessary, it is intellectually dishonest. Does holding public office automatically strip an individual of personal political rights? Are those making the loudest accusations themselves free from lobbying, scheming, or projecting candidates in their wards and local governments? The answer is obvious.
What we are witnessing is selective outrage. These individuals are not defending party integrity; they are defending their own ambitions. With time, I will clearly state who these same people are projecting within their wards. Their early complaints are simply preemptive strikes, born out of the fear that their interests may no longer be sustained.
Let us be clear: there is absolutely nothing wrong with the Chief of Staff having interests. If I were in his position, I would naturally support people I trust and believe can be effective when given the opportunity. That is human nature, and more importantly, that is politics.
We must stop dragging the Chief of Staff at every slightest opportunity. His position does not disqualify him from political participation. Enough of this unnecessary demonization. Make we allow this innocent man rest, abeg.
If some of you were in his shoes, you would likely do far worse.
Enough of “Chief of Staff” every time, mbok.
I rest my case.
Daniel Onen