Embattled former National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Julius Abure, has fired back at former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, accusing them of deepening the party’s internal crisis.
In a statement released by LP’s National Secretary, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, the Abure-led faction rejected recent claims by Obi that the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government had infiltrated the Labour Party to sow discord.
“The current challenges in the LP were not created by the ruling APC but by Peter Obi and Governor Alex Otti,” the statement said. It accused the duo of unconstitutionally setting up a caretaker committee in Umuahia, Abia State, thereby violating court rulings and polarising the party.
Abure, who continues to assert leadership of the party following a Supreme Court ruling, alleged that Obi and Otti attempted to hijack the party structure ahead of the 2027 elections but resorted to sabotage after failing in their bid.
He also defended his leadership record, stressing the role played by his faction in backing Obi’s 2023 presidential run. According to him, the party mobilised nationwide and provided legal support during the post-election litigations.
“Peter Obi himself admitted during the interview that Julius Abure remains the National Chairman. It’s time he and his supporters accept that fact and stop spreading divisive and misleading narratives,” the statement added.
The Labour Party has been locked in a prolonged leadership tussle since early 2024, with multiple factions vying for control. Despite a ruling by the Supreme Court affirming Abure’s leadership, internal dissent persists.
Analysts warn that unless urgent steps are taken to resolve the rift, the party risks losing its footing as a credible third force in Nigeria’s political space.
