A sociopolitical group known as the Voice of Erei North and South Women in Politics has 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.
In a press statement issued on March 5, the group dissociated itself from the petition, describing it as a personal action that does not represent the values, culture, and character of Erei women.
The women expressed disappointment over Mrs. Usang’s conduct following the election that produced Hon. Ometu, stating that such actions contradict the spirit of unity, progress, and mutual support for which Erei women are widely known.
According to the group, Erei women have always been recognized for their progressive mindset and their culture of celebrating the achievements of others rather than engaging in actions capable of creating division or unnecessary controversy within the political space.
They further noted that the petition portrays a character inconsistent with the values instilled in women of Erei extraction, emphasizing that Erei women have always shown respect for constituted authority and established leadership.
The group also recalled that when Mrs. Usang was nominated to serve as the Cross River South Zonal Women Leader of the APC, Erei women rallied around her and celebrated her emergence. They pointed out that the support was given 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 in the area.
According to them, the women of Erei, alongside the people of Biase, extended goodwill and support to her, demonstrating the inclusive and accommodating nature of the Erei community.
The women further warned that personal attacks on individuals and the alleged sponsorship of blogs to disrespect party leaders would not be tolerated among the womenfolk.
While acknowledging that every Erei woman has the right to aspire to and occupy public office, the group stated that any attack on an Erei woman or respected elder statesman would be strongly resisted.
They reaffirmed their commitment to peace, cooperation, and progress, pledging to continue upholding the reputation of Erei women as promoters of harmony, unity, and development within the political and social space.
The statement was jointly signed by 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, and Mrs. Florence Obai.
