Factional National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Julius Abure, has accused Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, of promoting political impunity and disrespecting the party’s structures, as tensions escalate within the opposition party.
The latest confrontation was triggered by Otti’s recent remarks during a television interview, where he dismissed Abure’s leadership claims as “a deliberate illusion” and described the faction’s actions as tantamount to political “masturbation.” Otti asserted that the Labour Party “cannot be held hostage” by individuals who have, in his words, “lost touch with reality and legality.”
In a sharp rebuttal, Abure labelled the governor’s comments as disgraceful and unbecoming of a leader who emerged under the party’s platform. “We told Nigerians that Labour Party would be different,” he said. “That we would produce leaders guided by integrity and respect for the rule of law. But what are we seeing today? A governor who disregards the party’s constitution and behaves as though he is above the institution that made him.”
Abure also condemned Otti’s alleged imposition of a caretaker committee in the state party structure, calling it an “illegal” move carried out without the approval of the National Working Committee (NWC). He framed the decision as a betrayal of party unity and a dangerous precedent.
Additionally, Abure criticised Otti’s administration for what he described as poorly conducted local council elections in Abia State, asserting that the process fell below democratic expectations.
The deepening rift highlights ongoing leadership tensions within the Labour Party following the 2023 general elections, where internal divisions have been amplified by disputes over control, loyalty, and future direction.
