From Christiana Gokyo, Jos
A deep rift has emerged within the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) Plateau State chapter, with accusations of corruption, misconduct, and political interference flying between rival factions.
At the centre of the controversy is the incumbent NULGE President, Chief Arandong Yohanna Makwin, who is seeking a second term in office.
Recalled, recently a group of NULGE members, led by Comrade Izere Maxwell Igyem, have publicly denounced Makwin’s leadership, accusing him of various wrongdoing, including financial impropriety and abuse of power.
In a press conference held in Jos, the Tarzarce Group, a faction supporting Makwin’s re-election, vehemently denied these allegations.
The group’s Director General, Comr. Hillary G. Shown stated that the accusations were baseless and politically motivated, aimed at undermining Makwin’s candidacy.
Shown explained that the recent disqualification of several candidates, including Comrade Ezekiel Musa Yelwa and Comrade Dauda Aku, was by the union’s constitution.
He also defended Makwin’s decision to seek re-election without stepping down from his current position, emphasizing that the union’s rules do not require such a move.
The Tarzarce Group accused Igyem and his faction of attempting to manipulate the election process by interfering in the selection of delegates from various local government branches.
They also criticized Igyem’s past record, claiming that he had engaged in corrupt practices during his time as a branch official.
The factional clash has raised concerns about the future of NULGE in Plateau State and the potential for further disruptions to the union’s activities. As the election approaches, it remains to be seen whether the parties can resolve their differences and ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process.
