'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has refused to recognize Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party, despite his name still appearing on its official website as the party’s leader. This development was revealed in a counter-affidavit filed by INEC at the Federal High Court in Abuja in response to the Labour Party’s lawsuit, which challenged its exclusion from INEC’s recent training for uploading party agents ahead of the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states.
In the court document, INEC made it clear that Abure’s tenure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party expired in June 2024. This statement contradicts the Labour Party’s claim that Abure remains its legitimate leader following a controversial congress in Anambra State earlier this year, which extended his tenure. The leadership crisis in the party has intensified since June 2024, sparking internal disagreements and raising questions about Abure’s continued role as chairman.
The leadership battle has seen key figures within the party, including former Deputy Chairman Callistus Okafor, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, and 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, challenge Abure’s claim to the chairmanship. The trio recently convened a national congress aimed at resolving the internal rift, but tensions remain high as both sides continue to push for control.
The refusal by INEC to acknowledge Abure’s leadership has added another layer of complexity to the situation, as the Labour Party prepares for key elections in Edo and Ondo states. Observers are watching closely to see how the ongoing power struggle will affect the party’s chances and cohesion ahead of these important polls.
As the Labour Party battles its internal conflicts, the future of its leadership remains uncertain, with court rulings and further developments expected to determine the final outcome of the tussle.
