In a crucial meeting held today, Barrister Julius Abure, the National Chairman of the Labour Party, addressed members of the National Executive Council (NEC) to discuss significant developments following the Supreme Court judgment on leadership disputes within Labour party. Abure underscored the importance of the meeting amidst recent challenges, emphasizing the need for clarity and unity in the face of the Supreme Court’s ruling.
Abure expressed sincere gratitude to the Supreme Court for reaffirming the autonomy of political parties in managing their internal affairs, including disputes related to leadership. He highlighted that the court’s judgment is not merely a legal victory for the Labour Party, it is a significant affirmation of democratic tenets and a milestone for institutional development in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Reiterating the legitimacy of the Labour Party’s current leadership, Abure challenged recent claims by Senators Nenadi Usman and Darlington Nwokocha, who sought to misinterpret the Supreme Court ruling. It is, however, regrettable that certain actors, most notably Senators Nenadi Usman and Darlington Nwokocha, have chosen to misrepresent the ruling, deliberately misleading the public and attempting to manufacture confusion through a purported “Caretaker Committee.” Let it be stated categorically: this so-called committee is both unconstitutional and illegitimate. he asserted, emphasizing that his administration continues to operate under the provisions established by the National Convention held on March 27, 2024.
Addressing the significance of the Supreme Court judgment, Abure clarified that the court did not dismiss the National Working Committee (NWC) led by him and reaffirmed the autonomy of the party in determining its internal matters. He stressed that any changes to party leadership must adhere to the processes outlined in the party’s constitution, stating, “Let it be clear, there is currently no vacuum in the leadership of the Labour Party. The National Working Committee, under my leadership, is valid and recognized.”
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Abure further elaborated on the illegitimacy of the Caretaker Committee, asserting that according to Article 14(4)(b) of the Labour Party’s constitution, the National Secretary is responsible for issuing notices for meetings of the National Convention, the National Executive Council, and the National Working Committee with the approval of the National Chairman. Additionally, INEC regulations stipulate that notices must be signed by both the National Chairman and the National Secretary. Article 13(B)(XII) grants the National Executive Council exclusive power to establish committees. Therefore, no legitimate meeting occurred on September 4, 2024, to form a Caretaker Committee, and such a committee is not specified in the party’s constitution. The apex court has affirmed that the party is supreme in managing its affairs and that the Labour Party is governed by its elected leadership from the March 27, 2024, convention. Abure condemned the Caretaker Committee as illegitimate and stated that they are hindering the party’s progress. He reassured Labour Party members and supporters of the party’s unity and commitment to delivering effective governance, ensuring security, facilitating economic growth, creating jobs, and investing in infrastructure. He emphasized that the Labour Party is prepared to lead with integrity and purpose if elected.
Highlighting the apex court’s decision, Abure reaffirmed that a political party retains supremacy over its internal affairs and governance structures. He described the members of the purported Caretaker Committee as “meddlesome interlopers” with intentions to disrupt the party’s progress. In reaffirming the party’s commitment to effective leadership, he delivered a powerful message of unity to Labour Party members and supporters across Nigeria.
In addition to addressing the leadership crisis, Abure outlined the party’s mission of delivering good governance, enhancing security, and fostering economic development. He emphasized the need for job creation and significant investments in infrastructure as pivotal for Nigeria’s growth. He assured supporters that if entrusted with power, the Labour Party is prepared to lead with integrity and purpose.
Furthermore, Abure expressed full support for Chief George Moghalu, the party’s candidate for Anambra State, indicating that Moghalu represents the values and vision of the Labour Party following a credible primary election. He assured party members of a vigorous campaign effort to secure victory for Moghalu in the upcoming elections.
To counter any misleading narratives surrounding the Labour Party, Abure urged all institutions, agencies, and citizens to rely on accurate information. He committed to making the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Supreme Court judgment on leadership disputes within Labour party publicly available for complete transparency once it is released.
Abure called on all stakeholders to remain focused on the factual aspects of the party’s leadership and to await the certification of the Supreme Court judgment, encouraging a collective movement towards the party’s shared vision. “We must move forward together, with renewed commitment to our shared vision,” he stated, reaffirming his dedication to the Labour Party and its supporters.
