CrossRiverWatch Confirms Obasesam Okoi’s Nomination To Contest Legislative Seat In Canada

By Aplefe Ojong

Mr. Tim Johnson, the Provincial Secretary of the Manitoba New Democratic Party (NDP), has confirmed to CrossRiverWatch that Yakurr born Obasesam Okoi, whom the party Secretary referred to as ‘Sam Okoi’ has been officially nominated as the NDP Candidate to represent Springfield-Richot Constituency in the forthcoming election in Manitoba, Canada.

In a telephone chat with our reporter, Mr Johnson said the nomination of Mr. Okoi was historic because the Progressive Conservaives PC has controlled the constituency for 17 years and the NDP is set to unseat them.

According to Tim Johnson: “I can confirm to you that Sam Okoi is our candidate for the elections. He hasn’t won yet because the elections are Still months ahead but I can confirm that he has been nominated to contest and represent our party at the elections.”

Earlier, in his acceptance speech posted on his Facebook timeline, Mr. Okoi said he accepted the nomination as an opportunity to be part of something bigger than himself, an opportunity to be part of a government that will listen to people.

“I am contesting this election because I share an abiding faith in the progressive philosophy of our great party and in the possibilities of our nation.

“I stand here knowing that my wellbeing is inextricably tied to the wellbeing of every Manitoban who is going to be deprived of access to emergency health services as the Conservative government undertakes to close emergency units in our hospitals.

“The future of our province is under threat as the Conservative government moves to cut funding on education.

“I stand here knowing that my dream is tied to the dreams of thousands of Manitobans who understand the importance of education in shaping our shared prosperity and are willing to make the necessary sacrifices to support a candidates who will defend progressive values.

“The Conservative government has continuously ignored the harmful effects of climate change. They are still in denial of the scientific evidence in support of anthropogenic global warming which confers on us the responsibility to take actions that will minimize harm on our planet.

“In all these undertakings, Manitobans are being left behind. Our voices do not matter in policy circles…

“I want to be part of a government that will fight for education, healthcare, climate change, and affordable childcare services.

“I want to be part of a government that will work tirelessly to defend minority rights including the rights of people who feel oppressed because of their race, gender, and sexual orientation.” He said.