ABUJA, Nigeria — The National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Nenadi Usman, has called on former party leader Julius Abure and his supporters to resolve internal disputes through the party’s electoral process rather than defiance.
Addressing stakeholders at a one-day high-level summit themed “Reuniting the Labour Party Family: Consolidating Strength for Sustainable Political Impact”, held at the LP National Secretariat in Abuja, Usman emphasised that the national congress offers an opportunity for all aspirants to contest for leadership positions democratically.
Court Ruling Confirms Usman Leadership
In January, the Federal High Court in Abuja removed Julius Abure from the party’s leadership. Justice Peter Lifu, citing the Supreme Court ruling of 4 April 2025, affirmed Usman as the legitimate leader of the LP.
The court mandated that INEC recognise the Usman-led caretaker committee as the only valid authority to represent the party pending its national convention.
Despite the ruling, Abure and his faction have resisted stepping aside, continuing to claim control over the party.
Call for Unity and Democratic Contestation
Usman urged aggrieved members to set aside personal ambitions for the party’s welfare, stating:
“I call on everyone to please put selfish interest aside, and put the interest of the party in front. Come and let’s work together.”
She added that anyone aspiring for leadership roles should participate in the upcoming party congresses:
“If anybody feels strongly that he must occupy any position in the party congresses, go and contest election. If you win, you will be declared a winner, and you will come and be the leader of the party or whatever position it is that you are contesting for.”
The LP leadership summit highlighted the need for reconciliation, structured party governance, and adherence to democratic norms as the party prepares for future elections.
