The Labour Party (LP) has removed its national chairman, Comrade Julius Abure, along with the members of its National Executive Committee (NEC).
In response, a 29-member caretaker committee has been established, headed by former Finance Minister Senator Esther Nenadi Usman as Chair, with Hon. Darlington Nwokocha appointed as Secretary.
This decision emerged from a “duly constituted” NEC and expanded stakeholders’ meeting, held in Umuahia and convened by Abia State Governor Alex Otti, the only governor from the Labour Party. The meeting was presided over by Mr. Peter Obi, the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, and attended by key LP members, including federal and state lawmakers.
Julius Abure and his allies were notably absent from the meeting. Stakeholders argued that Abure’s tenure had expired in June, rendering his continued role as national chairman illegitimate.
A five-point communique, read by LP’s 2023 Deputy Governorship Candidate in Plateau State, Hon. Edward Pwajok, emphasized that the committee’s membership reflects “various interests and tendencies” within the party, including representatives from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Senate, House of Representatives, State Houses of Assembly, and the party’s 2023 gubernatorial candidates.
The communique directed the caretaker committee to ensure that party congresses at ward, local government, state, and national levels are conducted “as soon as possible.” The committee is to manage party affairs for the next three months, during which time new leaders will be elected at all levels.
Party members were urged to support the caretaker committee in fulfilling its mandate. Peter Obi praised Governor Otti for facilitating the meeting, stating that extensive consultations were conducted before deciding to hold the expanded stakeholders’ meeting to address the party’s ongoing challenges.
Obi reiterated his call for due process, despite criticism and challenges to his stance within the party. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity and encouraged all members to prioritize the party’s interests moving forward.
Caretaker Committee Chair Senator Nenadi Usman acknowledged the “significant responsibility” placed upon the committee, assuring party members that they are committed to restoring stability within LP. She noted that internal conflicts have deterred potential members from joining the party, stating, “People have not registered with LP because of the problems that have plagued the party.”
