Former Imo State governorship aspirant under the Labour Party, Ike Ibe, remains resolute in affirming his continued membership with the party, despite his unsuccessful bid to secure the gubernatorial ticket during the state primaries.
In a telephone interview with Media Talk Africa on Wednesday, Ibe expressed regret over the national factionalization of the Labour Party, attributing this unhealthy development to the outcome of the gubernatorial primaries in Imo State.
Reflecting on the recent gubernatorial poll, Ibe stated that the Labour Party participated in the election amidst a factionalized environment, a consequence of the governorship candidate Athan Achonu’s efforts to reconcile with co-contestants who had contested the primary election outcome in court.
According to Ibe, “Disagreements within political parties are not unique to the Labour Party. I am a key member of the Labour Party and contested for the gubernatorial ticket during the primaries, emerging as the winner.”
“However, the unfortunate factionalization of the Labour Party led to multiple factions seeking legal redress to determine the legitimate party candidate. I am involved in one of the court cases, which concluded recently at the federal high court where we were unsuccessful.”
“Despite this, I have not defected from the Labour Party. I am a significant stakeholder and have tirelessly advocated for the party both at state and national levels. I have a vested interest in the party’s success.
“During the national assembly and presidential elections in Imo State, I was the singular known gubernatorial aspirant for the party. Rest assured, I am steadfast in my commitment to the Labour Party and continue to offer my support,” affirmed Ibe.
Recalling recent events, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate, Athan Achonu, finished third after being defeated by the All Progressives Congress (APC) standard-bearer, Hope Uzodinma.
Uzodinma secured the highest number of votes, reclaiming the state governorship seat upon the conclusion of voting and result collation by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
