By Emmanuel Ndon

The cracks were obvious long before 2023, but the chasm widened during the last general elections.

Discordant tunes which tore party faithfuls apart following the triumph of Pastor Umo Eno over son of the soil – Mr. Akan Okon at the party primaries  deepened internal rivalries in Itu chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Dr. Henry Archibong

But the new year heralded a new spirit of political awareness that encourages inclusion and participation in Itu political landscape.

Tensions generated by agitations and struggle for political leadership in Itu and the seeming superiority contest among political office holders now appear to have lessened.

The welcome change is a product of a new year get-together organized recently by the political leader of Itu,  The Rt. Honourable (Dr.) Henry Archibong.

Dr. Archibong, a former member of House of Representatives, is a strong supporter of the Umo Eno administration.

Apparently burdened by incessant political strife and acrimony particularly among the PDP camp, Henry, used the forum to sue for peace and unity.

He frowned at the “needless bickering and quarrels”, which he said did no good individually or collectively.

Dr  Henry responded well to the rift generated by his assumption of political leadership of Itu which pitted him against Senator Anietie Okon’s camp last year.

“That His Excellency appointed me his Political Leader did not take away the fact that we have Senator Anietie Okon who is our traditional Political Leader and our father.”

“My political leadership”, he said, “is more of administrative because I am the one to interface with His Excellency”.

Indeed, Dr. Henry’s comments outlined his desire for oneness but also emphasized the fact that the office of political leader is never in contention. It was the discretion of the governor that he’ll be ‘comfortable’ to  work with Henry.

Amid contempt and hurt, the move is a step towards true reconciliation, a good omen for reclaiming the lost unity in Itu.

Irrespective of any view, the move by Dr. Henry will sure  provide the building blocks for enduring peace.

But beyond Itu, Henry’s fence mending has the prospect of galvanizing support for the Umo Eno administration on one side and Itu political growth on the other for which Henry appropriately acknowledged the governor over the numerous appointments for Itu.

Stakeholders expressed satisfaction and optimism about the new move and the excitement on their faces reflected hope and enthusiasm.

All peace loving people should rally round the new spirit and bury their differences for a  renewed hope and progress in Itu. Whether it yields now or later, no effort should be spared.

Emmanuel Ndon is the Secretary, Itu Local Government Transition Committee