Labour Party Crisis Deepens: Abure Accuses INEC, Obi, and Otti of Collusion

Labour Party Crisis Deepens: Abure Accuses INEC, Obi, and Otti of Collusion

The internal conflict within the Labour Party has taken a dramatic turn as Julius Abure, the party's national chairman, has publicly accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of unfairly targeting the party. Abure claims that INEC's actions are a direct result of the Labour Party's defense of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, during the 2023 general elections.

Abure's faction of the party alleges that INEC is colluding with Obi and Otti to overthrow the current leadership. Obiora Ifoh, the faction's National Publicity Secretary, stated that INEC's refusal to recognize Abure as chairman is a deliberate attempt to destabilize the party. Ifoh emphasized that the party's national convention in March 2024, which re-elected Abure, was valid and conducted in accordance with the Electoral Act and Labour Party Constitution.

Abure's camp is outraged by Obi and Otti's decision to side with INEC, citing the electoral body's controversial role in the 2023 elections. "It's paradoxical that leaders who were victims of INEC's mismanagement are now quoting INEC and joining forces with it to victimize the party leadership," Ifoh said.

INEC's stance on the Labour Party's leadership has sparked controversy. The electoral body claims that Abure's tenure expired in June 2024, while Abure's faction insists that his re-election at the March 2024 convention is valid.

Obi and Otti's decision to establish a caretaker committee has further fueled the crisis. The committee, led by Senator Nenadi Usman, is tasked with conducting elections for new party leadership within 90 days. Abure's faction has refused to recognize the committee, citing its illegitimacy.

The internal power struggle within the Labour Party may have significant implications for its future. As the party prepares for the 2027 elections, the crisis may affect its ability to present a united front.

Stakeholders within the party have expressed concern over the crisis. "This internal conflict will weaken the party's chances in future elections," said a Labour Party senator.

The crisis within the Labour Party is likely to escalate, with Abure's faction refusing to recognize the caretaker committee. As the party navigates this challenging period, its future remains uncertain.