REPORT OF THE INTERNATIONAL REPUBLICAN INSTITUTE (IRI) STAKEHOLDERS’ ENGAGEMENT WITH POLITICAL PARTIES IN BENUE STATE

I had the privilege of representing the Chairman of the Labour Party in Benue State, Hon. Ochonu William Okefie, who was unavoidably engaged in another official assignment, at a stakeholders’ engagement meeting organized by the International Republican Institute (IRI).

The meeting brought together representatives of major political parties in Benue State, including the Labour Party, APC, ADC, and NDC, to deliberate on challenges affecting political parties and democratic governance in Nigeria, particularly in Benue State. Discussions focused on both internal and external challenges confronting political parties and the electoral process.

The engagement provided a valuable platform for robust discussions on issues such as internal party democracy, political party funding, security challenges arising from banditry and herders’ attacks, voter participation during elections, and the need for greater inclusion of women in politics.

One of the highlights of the meeting was the recognition accorded to the Labour Party for its commitment to women’s participation in politics. Participants commended the party for providing leadership opportunities to women, particularly the emergence of a female Deputy Governorship candidate. This achievement was widely acknowledged and applauded by representatives of all political parties present.

During my presentation, I reminded the gathering of the Labour Party’s popular slogan, “Papa, Mama, Pikin,” which reflects the party’s commitment to inclusiveness and people-centric governance. I emphasized that the Labour Party remains dedicated to rescuing Benue State from its numerous socio-economic and developmental challenges through people-centered leadership.

I also informed the international delegation that the Labour Party is a grassroots-driven political platform whose policies and decisions are shaped by the aspirations of ordinary citizens. I expressed confidence that when the party assumes leadership in 2027, it will restore hope, security, and prosperity to the people of Benue State.

Responding to questions regarding internal party crises, I stated that the Labour Party in Benue State remains stable, united, and peaceful because it rejects impunity and embraces democratic principles. I explained that elective positions within the party are determined by the will of party members and delegates, not by imposition. The party’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and grassroots participation has significantly reduced disputes and electoral litigations.

On the issue of insecurity and the persistent attacks on farming communities, I challenged the widely used description of the situation as merely a “farmer-herder conflict.” I noted that many communities in Benue State have suffered unprovoked attacks, leading to the displacement of farmers from their ancestral lands. I urged the international community to critically examine the realities on the ground and avoid accepting misleading narratives that may not accurately reflect the experiences of affected communities.

Interestingly, representatives of other political parties openly acknowledged the existence of significant internal crises within their respective parties and expressed concerns over the impact of such challenges. In contrast, the Labour Party was recognized as one of the few parties whose primary election processes were largely peaceful, transparent, and rancour-free.

Earlier in the meeting, Mr. William Meeker from Washington and Ms. Santell Barnes of the International Republican Institute reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to collaborating with political parties to strengthen democratic institutions, improve party governance, and address challenges affecting political participation.

The Senior Governance Adviser to the International Republican Institute, Mr. Sunday Alao, played a pivotal role throughout the engagement. Through his effective coordination, insightful contributions, and professional moderation, he facilitated productive interactions between the participating political parties and the organization, contributing significantly to the success of the meeting.

Overall, the engagement was productive, insightful, and timely. It provided an opportunity for political parties to share experiences, identify common challenges, and explore collaborative approaches towards strengthening democracy, promoting inclusiveness, and improving governance in Benue State and Nigeria as a whole.

Submitted by:
Evangelist John Unogwu Oche
Representative of the Benue State Chairman, Labour Party, Hon. Ochonu William Okefie