APC Chapter Women Leaders Raise Alarm Over Gender Inequality In Cross River State

 

APC Chapter Women Leaders Raise Alarm Over Gender Inequality In Cross River State

Tension soared as women leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State's Southern Senatorial District convened for a familiarization meeting on May 2, 2024, at the APC Party State Secretariat. Hosted by AMB. (Mrs.) Benita Usang, the APC State Women Leader (South), the gathering quickly turned into a platform for voicing long-standing grievances and demanding change.

The atmosphere was charged as chapter women leaders, including Emmanuella Etim of Calabar South, Hon. Phillipa of Akamkpa, Princess Eso of Bakassi, Dorothy Isaa of Odukpani, and Florence Ekpeyong of Calabar Municipality, took turns passionately airing their concerns. Gender inequality within the party, lack of women-inclusive programs, and the exploitation of women as mere "tools" to achieve political goals were among the issues raised.

Complaints poured in regarding the marginalization of women in crucial programs like palliatives and the misappropriation of funds intended for women's empowerment initiatives. The women leaders expressed frustration over being sidelined and their voices going unheard.

Attending the meeting were prominent party officials, including Chief Ekum Okok Ojogu, the APC Deputy Chairman, Hon. Patrick Asikpo, the Party Secretary, Hon. Tity Ndifon, the Vice Chairman (South), and Lady Assumpta Offiong, the Assistant State Women Leader.

In response to the barrage of concerns, Chief Okok Ojogu acknowledged the issues raised and vowed to work towards creating a more inclusive environment for women within the party. Hon. Patrick Asikpo pledged to ensure the proper implementation of women-inclusive programs and the appropriate utilization of funds allocated for women's empowerment.

Hon. Tity Ndifon reiterated the party's commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women, while Lady Assumpta Offiong commended the women leaders for their courage in raising these critical matters.

As the meeting drew to a close, AMB. (Mrs.) Benita Usang thanked the attendees for their participation and urged the state chapter women leaders to continue advocating for their rights and empowerment within the party's ranks through the leadership of the people-first government and the unwavering support of His Excellency the Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu and his dear wife, Her Excellency Mrs. Eyoawan Bassey Edet Otu, a passionate advocate for women's empowerment, hope is revived for all the women who have worked tirelessly to achieve this goal.

The event served as a culmination of long-simmering frustrations, with APC Chapter women leaders as well as female executives in the party. demanding immediate action and tangible changes to address gender inequality and ensure their voices are heard and respected within the party's ranks.

AMB (Mrs.) Benita Usang, 

APC State Women Leader,

Southern Senatorial District, Cross-River.