As the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention slated for this month draws near, former Special Assistant to the President on Prosecution and Chairman of the Special Presidential Investigation Panel, Chief Obono-Obla, has indicated interest in contesting for the office of the National Publicity Secretary of the party.

Obla, who had earlier expressed interest in contesting for the position of APC National Secretary, said he had decided to change his mind and vie for the position of National Publicity Secretary to align his aspirations with the party’s decision.

“I am aspiring to the position of National Publicity Secretary, or, in the alternative, the National Vice Chairman (South-South), subject to the approval of party leaders,” he said.

The veteran politician, constitutional lawyer, and traditional ruler told The Guardian in a telephone conversation on Tuesday that he is best suited for the role because of his over 35 years of legal practice and extensive government service. “I believe that I am best suited for the role because of my experience as Special Assistant to the President on Prosecution and Chairman of the Special Presidential Investigation Panel.

“As an aspirant with extensive institutional memory, after serving as National Deputy Secretary, Secretary of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change (CPC), and Co-Secretary of the Joint Inter-Party Merger Committee that negotiated the formation of the APC in 2013, I feel that I am well placed for the top job.

As a traditional ruler in Yakurr community in Cross River State since 2009, Obla sees himself as an individual who has honed his skills as a judge, mediator, and administrator of justice, adding that the skills acquired all this while can be used to strengthen the party’s internal conflict resolution mechanisms.

Obla stated that his extensive experience in media relations and governance will enable him to effectively promote the party’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “I will function seamlessly as a credible publicity anchor for the party,” he said.

He expressed his willingness to serve the party with dedication and distinction, emphasising that his skills and experience make him an ideal candidate for the position of National Publicity Secretary.