The Labour Party, led by Julius Abure, has announced the indefinite suspension of six prominent members, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti and Senator Ireti Kingibe, over allegations of anti-party conduct. The decision was made public on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, following a disciplinary investigation by the party’s leadership.
In a statement signed by the party’s National Secretary, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, the Labour Party confirmed that a five-man disciplinary panel had concluded its investigation and submitted a report, which was ratified by the National Executive Committee (NEC).
As a result, the following members were suspended from the Labour Party and barred from all its activities effective immediately:
- Governor Alex Otti
- Senator Ireti Kingibe
- Senator Darlington Nwokocha
- Hon. Victor Afam Ogene
- Hon. Amobi Ogah
- Hon. Seyi Sowunmi
The party urged institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the National Assembly, and the Nigeria Governors Forum to take note of the suspensions.
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The Labour Party anti-party suspensions follow mounting tensions within the party over loyalty and internal discipline. The party clarified that the controversial political figure Nenadi Usman was not included on the suspension list because she is not a registered Labour Party member but a member of the Obidient Support Group. The party accused her of shifting political loyalties and questioned her credibility by referencing her past legal issues with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
“We challenge Nenadi Usman to explain her plea bargain with the EFCC and how she acquired her assets, including properties and companies within and outside Nigeria,” the statement read.
The Labour Party also took the opportunity to assure the public of its financial transparency, stating that its financial records had been audited and cleared by INEC-appointed auditors. According to the party, among all political parties in Nigeria, the Labour Party’s financial records ranked among the best.
The leadership reaffirmed its commitment to contesting the 2027 general elections independently and dismissed any talks of a merger or coalition. “Those pushing the coalition agenda lack the character and capacity to lead such a political alliance,” the statement noted.
With these Labour Party anti-party suspensions, the party continues to reinforce discipline within its ranks as it positions itself for the 2027 elections.
This move highlights internal efforts to preserve unity and reinforce standards, especially amid recent calls for political mergers by some opposition figures — a proposal the party has firmly rejected.