Chairman of Labour Party in Cross River, Ogar Osim has denied that he has been suspended by the party.
In a telephone interview, Osim described the report as untrue, adding that it was null and void.
According to a press statement, Osim was suspended alongside Felix Etim, the party’s Secretary over alleged anti-party issues and embezzlement.
The press statement was signed by the Chairman and the Secretary of the State disciplinary committee, Bonnie Adie and Ibiang Igri, respectively.
They also announced the appointment of Eugene Obia and Allen Ekpe as acting Chairman and Secretary, respectively.
“The decision to relieve them of the positions was taken following a thorough investigation into allegations of gross misconduct, anti-party activities, inability to maintain a state secretariat, embezzlement, and other serious issues.
“We are confident that Mr Obia and Mr Ekpe that have been appointed in acting capacities will provide strong leadership and ensure the smooth functioning of the Labour Party in the State.
“We urge all members to cooperate with the new leadership and work together to achieve the party’s goals,” it stated.
However, Osim, who was also the governorship candidate of the party during last year’s general election, said the purported suspension was not from the party and should be discountenanced.
“I remain the chairman of LP in Cross River State.
“The whole thing was concocted by one Nkoyo Otu, our erstwhile Women Leader whom we nominated for Governor Bassey Otu to appoint as Special Adviser on Inter Party affairs.
“Who set up the disciplinary committee? Certainly not the party because I do not even know the persons constituting the so-called disciplinary committee.
“Normally, isn’t the legal officer of the party ought to constitute such disciplinary committee?
“At my level, my suspension, if at all, can only emanate from the National Secretariat.”
Osim said they accused him of embezzlement but that they failed to mention how much he embezzled.
He further laughed at the second allegation that he had been unable to ‘sustain’ the party Secretariat.
