Objective Critique: Ukelle Vanguard’s Statement on Yala LGA Political Tensions
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
The recent statement credited to Ukelle Vanguard regarding the alleged moves to impeach Hon. Elder Dr. Fred Okem, Chairman of Yala LGA, has generated discussions across political circles in Cross River State. While the write-up reflects the concerns of the Ukelle community, an objective critique reveals both strengths and potential gaps in the narrative being circulated.
Strengths of the Statement
Ukelle Vanguard’s message effectively captures the sentiments of the Ukelle (Yala 2) constituency, particularly its frustration over what it perceives as political marginalisation. The reference to the paramount ruler controversy and the zoning agreement highlights long-standing political sensitivities in Yala LGA. By invoking the unanimous vote of confidence on 28th August 2025, the group attempts to show broad stakeholder support for Hon. Okem’s administration, thereby countering the impeachment speculation.
The tone of the statement appeals to unity and stability within the APC, warning against actions that could trigger division ahead of future elections. This is a strategic point, as political discord often undermines party cohesion in local government areas.
Weaknesses and Concerns
However, the statement raises some concerns:
- Lack of Concrete Evidence:
While it accuses a Yala 1 leader of orchestrating plans for impeachment, the write-up offers no verifiable evidence or direct quotes from key political actors. This weakens its credibility and makes it appear speculative rather than fact-based. - One-Sided Perspective:
The statement presents Ukelle’s stance strongly but fails to address the allegations of incompetence reportedly fuelling the impeachment talks. An objective assessment would require balancing community loyalty with a fair appraisal of the chairman’s performance in office. - Risk of Escalating Tensions:
Phrases such as “any attempt to undermine the patience and calmness of the Ukelle Nation will be met with resistance” could be interpreted as confrontational. While perhaps intended to show firmness, such rhetoric risks inflaming rather than resolving political disputes.
Way Forward
For peace and unity to thrive, stakeholders in Yala LGA, including the state governor and party leadership, must independently verify the claims, mediate between factions, and ensure that governance performance—not political power struggles—remains the basis for evaluating Hon. Okem’s administration.
Political analysts suggest that a public statement from the APC leadership or the state government clarifying the zoning policy and addressing impeachment rumours would go a long way in calming tensions.
Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org
Shared By Ada Solomon
“A pressing concern from Ukelle Vanguard:
It has become evident that a particular leader from Yala 1 State Constituency is attempting to sow discord in Yala LGA by consistently demonstrating power and undermining the interests of Ukelle (Yala 2 State Constituency). Despite the hard-won agreement on zoning the chairmanship position, which has worked smoothly until now, this individual is gradually disrupting the peace and development of Yala LGA.
Ukelle is still reeling from the recent controversy surrounding the paramount ruler position, forcefully taken away and given to a chief from Yala 1. This issue poses a significant threat to the success of our party, APC, in Ukelle land. The Ukelle community struggles to comprehend the level of power display orchestrated by this individual.
Given the unanimous vote of confidence for Hon. Elder Dr. Fred Okem by the entire Ukelle Nation, the Deputy Governor, state chairman, and stakeholders on August 28, 2025, at Wanokom and Okpoma, it is unbecoming for this individual to push for his removal. Any attempt to undermine the patience and calmness of the Ukelle Nation will be met with resistance.
While Hon. Elder Dr. Fred Okem may not be perfect, Ukelle has never planned or sponsored any impeachment against a Yala 1 chairman. I urge APC leaders, particularly Governor Senator Prince Bassey E Otu, to caution this leader and allow peace and unity to thrive in Yala LGA. The constant display of power threatens to destabilize the party and its institutions.
The entire Ukelle Nation is comfortable with Hon. Elder Dr. Fred Okem’s administration.
Signed,
Ukelle Vanguard
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