In the fast-paced world of politics, political parties are often the scene of infighting and hierarchy disputes. Recently, the Labour Party (LP) led by Julius Abure has been at the forefront of such disputes, highlighting the power struggles that are rocking the political landscape.
A statement by the party’s National Communications Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, has indeed challenged claims by Senator Nanedi Usman, who was appointed the party’s interim chairman by stakeholders. The latter had claimed that her committee had saved the LP from being deregistered by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
However, Ifoh was quick to debunk the allegations, describing the senator’s remarks as “playful, implausible, unsubstantiated and untruthful”. According to him, the Labour Party is in good shape and fully compliant with the law, which makes it impossible for it to be deregistered by INEC.
It is true that the stakeholders’ meeting of September 4, 2024 in Umuahia, cited by Usman, has sparked controversy because of its unconstitutional and illegal nature, not being among the official organs of the party as defined in its constitution. Furthermore, the findings of the Court of Appeal in Edo and FCT States as well as the High Court in Abuja uphold the legitimacy of Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the party, and validate the Nnewi national convention of March 2024.
The tactics of the opposing leaders of the Labour Party are clear: to try to force INEC to comply with their demands, which is proving futile in light of the legal provisions in force. Indeed, INEC is bound by the laws in place and cannot act arbitrarily, as stipulated in the Articles of the Constitution of the party.
In this political imbroglio, the need to preserve the unity of the party and the interest of Nigerians is paramount, especially as the 2027 elections approach. Infighting and delaying tactics are likely to damage the image of the party and divert attention from the major issues at stake.
In conclusion, wisdom advises Senator Usman and her supporters to exercise discernment and rally for the common good. The fragmentation of the party will not serve the interest of anyone, and only a unified and harmonious vision will address the challenges facing the Labour Party in the national political arena.