I Am The Authentic Chairman Of IMPAN, Okim Tells CRiverians, Gives Convincing Reasons

 

I Am The Authentic Chairman Of IMPAN, Okim Tells CRiverians, Gives Convincing Reasons

Re: C'River Govt. Acknowledges Obi-led IPMAN, Sues For Synergy To Boast Oil Sector Revenue 

In response to the recent inciting, baseless and emotional outburst by one Comrade Robert Obi, former factional caretaker Chairman of IPMAN Calabar unit during their purported visit to Secretary to the state government and other issues, I would like to provide a balanced perspective on the matter.

Firstly, it is important to note that the Calabar unit of IPMAN has been plagued by internal factions and leadership disputes for several years caused by the said Obi and cohorts. This has resulted in a lack of unity and hindered the smooth operation of the association, hence the reason for intervention by the National executive committee and other relevant stakeholders. 

My inauguration as caretaker chairman in the presence of the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, has been seen by all as an attempt to unite and strengthen the association, as against the insinuations of naysayers. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that both factions within IPMAN Calabar unit have been engaged in a conciliation process to bring about peace and unity. But Obi has been adamant in bringing this to fruition, and has continually laid claim to the office of acting chairman for over five years, contravening a section of the constitution which stipulates three to six months for an interim leadership. 

It is worth mentioning that the leadership of IPMAN Calabar unit, under my watch, has been recognized by legal institutions, even up to the Supreme Court, the security agencies, the government and the National executive committee of the association. These are the indices that confer legitimacy on any body or group. Thus, I remain the legally recognised Chairman of IPMAN Calabar unit, howbeit on an interim basis. 

Also, it is important to emphasize that the resolution of this dispute should not solely rest on legal interpretations or court judgments. It is essential for all stakeholders to come together, in the spirit of unity and cooperation, to find a lasting solution that benefits all members of IPMAN. This was what transpired during my inauguration when the entire members of IPMAN came together to set up a caretaker executive with the sole mandate of uniting the association.  

We therefore urge all stakeholders in the petroleum sector and indeed the general public to beware of any illegal body parading as the recognised Executive of IPMAN, outside the one superintendent by me and backed by the National executive committee of the association.

We understand the concerns raised by all members of the association and the desire for a unified IPMAN Calabar unit. It has been the efforts of the interim executive under my watch to engage in constructive dialogue and work towards a peaceful resolution that benefits the entire association and  conduct elections that will usher in a substantial executive.

First and foremost, the allegation that I "almost pitched the youths of Esuk Utan, host community and depot operators against each other" is not only unfounded but lacks evidence in its entirety. It is simply the work of idle- minded fellows, whose only undertaking is to peddle unsubstantiated rumours.    

Obi went further to insinuate that I was barred by the previous government from interfering with the activities of Depot operations. But such a bar only happened in the figment of the imagination of the schemer.  

 

Unfortunately, his efforts to see the government appoint another person to take my position as Chairman of the state petroleum taskforce has not only proven to be an exercise in futility but a laughable attempt to reap where he did not sow. Such a sinister call and effort can only be a by-product of envy, uncontrollable bitterness, greed and wickedness. He should know that we are not unaware of his sceeming to be appointed into the current administration, which he vehemently worked against during election.  He should channel his energies into a more rewarding enterprise as well as concentrate on building his party, the PDP instead of attempting to wrestle with grace. 

In conclusion, it is important to critically analyze the information presented and avoid drawing conclusions based on unsubstantiated claims. IPMAN, Calabar unit under my watch is focus on fostering peace and cooperation among its members and affiliate bodies. And not ready to entertain distractions from idle minded people. As such, I refute the statements made in the original write-up and affirm the Exco led by me as the authentic one.

 Peter Okim, 

IPMAN Chairman, 

Calabar Unit.

10/8/2023