Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has clarified that Julius Abure’s removal as national chairman was a result of the party’s constitution, not influenced by any governor.
Obi, represented by his 2023 running mate Datti Baba-Ahmed, made this statement during the LP caretaker committee’s inaugural meeting in Abuja.
Obi appealed for unity, urging Abure and his supporters to reconcile and collaborate with the caretaker committee to strengthen the party. He emphasized that Abure’s tenure naturally expired, and he remains a valued member with future roles within the party.
Addressing concerns about the transition, Obi stated, “No governor unseated Abure; it was the constitution that concluded his tenure. We experienced a transition, which, despite its challenges, was managed effectively. Our party’s achievements are significant, and we will continue to be a formidable force in African politics.”
Obi also expressed his concerns about the current economic crisis under the All Progressives Congress (APC), which he had predicted. He affirmed that the Labour Party aims to build on its 2023 successes by securing a majority in the National Assembly and the presidential seat in 2027.
“We warned Nigerians about the APC’s potential failures, which are now manifesting. The APC’s mishandling has led to worsening economic conditions, security issues, and widespread corruption,” Obi remarked.
Senator Nenadi Usman, the chairman of the Labour Party National Caretaker Committee, promised a focused effort to address the party’s challenges and restore its position as a credible alternative for Nigerians. Usman highlighted the committee’s mission as crucial not only for the party but for the nation as a whole.
Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechukwu Emetu, representing Governor Alex Otti, encouraged committee members to prioritize the party’s growth and avoid actions that could harm its interests. Senator Darlington Nwokocha, the committee’s secretary, assured that the committee would work diligently to elect new officers at all levels of the party.
