The Voice of Erei North and South Women in Politics, a sociopolitical group, has strongly condemned the actions of the former Cross River South Zonal Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mrs. Benita Usang, over a petition she reportedly authored or sponsored challenging the election of Hon. Mrs. Rose Ometu as her successor.
Reacting to the development, the women dissociated themselves from the petition, describing it as a personal decision that does not reflect the values, culture, and character of Erei women.
According to the group, Mrs. Usang’s actions following the election and the subsequent emergence of Hon. Rose Ometu are disappointing and unbecoming. They noted that such conduct runs contrary to the spirit of unity, progress, and mutual support for which Erei women are known.
They emphasized that Erei women are widely respected for their progressive mindset and their culture of celebrating and supporting the success of others, rather than engaging in actions capable of causing division or unnecessary controversy.
The group further expressed concern that the petition portrays a character inconsistent with the values instilled in women of Erei extraction, noting that Erei women respect constituted authority and leadership.
The women also recalled that when Mrs. Usang was nominated to serve as Cross River South Zonal Women Leader of the APC, Erei women rallied around her and celebrated her elevation, despite the fact that she is a Biase woman by marriage and, at the time, neither possessed a voter’s card in Biase nor had she ever voted there.
According to them, the women of Erei, along with the people of Biase at large, offered her full support and goodwill at the time, demonstrating the inclusive and supportive nature of the Erei community.
The women further stressed that her personal attacks on individuals and the alleged sponsorship of blogs to disrespect party leaders will not be tolerated among the womenfolk. While maintaining that every Erei woman has the right to aspire to and occupy public office, they added that any attack on an Erei woman or elder statesman will be vehemently resisted.
The group reaffirmed its support for peace, cooperation, and progress, while pledging to continue upholding the reputation of Erei women as promoters of harmony and development within the political and social space.
E-Signed:
Mrs. Evelyn Godwin
Mrs. Mercy Emmanuel
Mrs. Edolong Idobi
Mrs. Calista Ogbor
Hon. Chief Mrs. Ada Charles
Hon. Mrs. Rose Ometu
Mrs. Ngozi Illem
Mrs. Eunice Onang
Mrs. Ugo Anthony
Mrs. Florence Obai
