Elder Goddey Obainoke has emerged the new Chairman of the Esan South-East Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), following the party’s local government congress held at the weekend. His emergence was greeted with applause from party faithful who described the exercise as peaceful and well coordinated.
The congress, which drew party leaders, stakeholders and members from across the local government area, was overseen by the Congress Committee led by Hon. Sunny Ojiezele Ikpenobhen appointed by the party leadership. Delegates affirmed their confidence in Goddey’s leadership, citing his long-standing commitment to the growth of the party at the grassroots.
Obainoke was the Chairman of the APC Exco in the local government area whose tenure ended last week by effusion of time.
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected chairman, Obainoke expressed deep gratitude to the Congress Committee Chairman, Hon. Sunny Ojiezele Ikpenobhen and members for what he described as a transparent and credible process.
“I sincerely thank the Congress Committee Chairman and his team for conducting a free and fair exercise,” Goddey said. “Your dedication has strengthened our internal democracy and reinforced the trust our members have in the party.”
He also appreciated party leaders and members across Esan South-East for their support and confidence in him.
“I am grateful to our leaders, elders and the entire party family in Esan South-East for this opportunity to serve. This victory is not mine alone. It belongs to every member who believes in the progress and unity of our great party,” he added.
Goddey pledged to work with all stakeholders to reposition the party for future electoral success. He stressed the need for unity, reconciliation and active grassroots mobilization ahead of forthcoming elections.
“Our focus from today is clear. We must close ranks, strengthen our structures in every ward, and work tirelessly to ensure victory for the APC in future elections. The task before us requires dedication, discipline and teamwork,” he said.
He called on members who may feel aggrieved to put aside differences in the interest of the party, noting that collective effort would determine the party’s success.
Addressing other members of the newly elected Executive Committee, Goddey urged them to see their positions as a call to service rather than personal achievement.
“To my fellow Exco members, this is the time to roll up our sleeves. Let us remain accessible, transparent and committed to the ideals of our party. The people are watching us, and we must not fail them,” he charged.
Party leaders at the event congratulated the new chairman and expressed confidence that under his leadership, the APC in Esan South-East would grow stronger and more united.
With the new executive now in place, party members say attention will shift to consolidation and strategic planning as the APC prepares for future political contests in the area.