Labour Party (LP) Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi, has urged for a comprehensive investigation into accusations of financial misconduct against Barrister Julius Abure, the National Chairman of the party.
Obi addressed the media during a briefing where he provided an account of the financial activities of the 2023 Obi-Datti Presidential campaign organization on Thursday.
“As a member and a choosen leader of the LP, I advocate for transparency in financial matters. Therefore, it is imperative that we appoint a reputable audit firm to scrutinize and rectify any discrepancies in the party’s accounts,” Obi emphasized.
According to reports by Daily Trust, the LP’s National Working Committee (NWC) imposed a six-month suspension on Mrs. Oluchi Oparah, the embattled National Treasurer, during a press conference held at the party’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.
Oparah intends to contest the suspension in court, alleging that the NWC’s actions were premeditated and unfair, especially since she was unable to meet the short notice given to appear before a panel due to her absence from Abuja.
Earlier in the week, Oparah accused Barrister Julius Abure of mishandling N3.5 billion generated from the sale of nomination forms and fundraising events leading up to the 2023 general elections. She also suggested collusion between the LP’s NWC and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led government of Edo State.
However, the LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Obiora Ifoh, dismissed Oparah’s claims, labeling her a mole manipulated by dissidents to sow discord within the party. He stated that the party decided to take action against Oparah after she disregarded invitations from the NWC to resolve the internal crisis.
During Thursday’s briefing, Obi appealed to all support groups, individuals, or parties that received campaign funds to provide an account of their expenditures, emphasizing the importance of transparency.
“We urge recipients of campaign funds, whether support groups or individuals, to ensure proper accountability for the funds entrusted to them. While we did not mandate that all funds raised must flow through us, we do insist on transparency and responsible stewardship,” Obi stated.
Aisha Yesufu, the Chairman of the Campaign Organization’s Fundraising Team, disclosed that over N744.5 million was spent on legal battles related to the 2023 presidential election, while donations totaling N595.9 million were received from Nigerians.
Yesufu highlighted the strategic distribution of funds towards campaign materials, media campaigns, and logistical support for over a hundred support groups across Nigeria. She emphasized prudent financial management due to budget constraints, ensuring effective utilization of funds in promoting the campaign.
In conclusion, the call for transparency and accountability in financial matters within the LP underscores the importance of ethical conduct and responsible stewardship in political organizations.
