The Labour Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), led by National Chairman Julius Abure, has issued a stern warning to the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, and Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, over what it described as divisive and unconstitutional actions within the party.
In a communique issued after a NEC meeting held at the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja on Monday, the party condemned an upcoming stakeholders’ meeting called by Governor Otti, labeling it “illegal” and a violation of party procedures.
The NEC also threatened disciplinary action against the governor if the meeting, scheduled for April 19, proceeds.
The party cautioned Peter Obi against engaging in any activity that undermines party unity, adding that no member, “no matter how highly placed,” will be spared if found guilty of anti-party conduct.
In a major shakeup within the Labour Party’s legislative arm, NEC announced the immediate removal of Hon. Afam Ogene as leader of the party’s caucus in the House of Representatives, citing poor representation and lack of cohesion. He has been replaced by Hon. Barr. Ben Etanabene.
Speaking through the National Secretary, Alhaji Umar Farouk, the NEC expressed concern over efforts allegedly led by Otti and Obi to create a parallel leadership within the party, particularly referencing a controversial stakeholders’ meeting in Umuahia on September 4, 2024.
“Governor Otti has called unauthorized meetings, conducted local government elections under another political party, and is working to divide the party ahead of the 2027 elections. These actions are unacceptable,” Farouk said.
The NEC vowed to invoke Article 19 of the party’s constitution to discipline the Abia governor and any other member acting against the party’s interest.
NEC reiterated its satisfaction with the Supreme Court ruling affirming the party’s right to determine its leadership, asserting that Julius Abure remains the legitimate National Chairman. It dismissed claims of a caretaker committee as unconstitutional and illegal.
The party also reaffirmed the outcomes of its March 27, 2024, convention held in Nnewi, Anambra State, which ratified the current National Working Committee under Abure’s leadership.
“There is no vacuum in the leadership of the Labour Party,” Abure stated during the meeting. “Our leadership remains valid and recognized. We will not allow unconstitutional contraptions to destabilize our progress.”
The NEC further instructed Ogene to hand over all Labour Party properties and financial contributions in his possession and render full accountability to the party.
As tensions grow within the Labour Party, the leadership has made it clear that loyalty to the constitution and party unity will be non-negotiable moving forward.
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