Abia State Governor Alex Otti has fiercely rejected his purported suspension from the Labour Party, labeling it a “desperate act of a clown looking for a crown” by embattled former party chairman Julius Abure. The escalating feud highlights deepening divisions within the Labour Party, with Otti accusing Abure of impersonation and defying a Supreme Court judgment.
Otti Fires Back: "Supreme Court Already Ousted Abure"
In a scathing statement released by his media aide, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Otti emphasized that the Supreme Court had already stripped Julius Abure of his role as Labour Party chairman. The ruling paved the way for a National Caretaker Committee led by Senator Nenadi Usman, which Abure has refused to acknowledge.
“The Supreme Court’s judgment aligns with the Labour Party’s constitution. Abure’s antics are a laughable affront to democracy,” the statement read. Otti further urged the Inspector General of Police to arrest Abure for impersonation and called on INEC to enforce the court’s decision to protect judicial integrity.
Abure’s "Suspension" Seen as Retaliation
The suspension announcement came hours after Abure was summoned by the Nenadi Usman-led committee to address allegations of financial misconduct, impersonation, and anti-party activities. Otti’s camp dismissed the move as a “self-serving economic agenda” by Abure to exploit the governor’s popularity for personal gain.
“This is a joke taken too far. Abure and his cohorts are inconsequential irritants clutching at straws,” Ekeoma stated.
Key Takeaways from the Labour Party Crisis
1. Supreme Court Legitimacy: The apex court’s ruling invalidates Abure’s authority, reinforcing the caretaker committee’s leadership.
2. Legal Repercussions: Otti’s demand for Abure’s arrest signals potential criminal charges for impersonation.
3. Party Stability at Risk: The public feud threatens to fracture the Labour Party ahead of future elections.
What’s Next for the Labour Party?
With INEC yet to formally recognize the caretaker committee, the party’s internal strife risks undermining its credibility. Political analysts warn that prolonged infighting could deter voter confidence and weaken Labour’s influence in key states like Abia.
Conclusion
The Labour Party’s turmoil underscores Nigeria’s broader challenges with political accountability and judicial enforcement. As Otti and Abure clash, the fallout may redefine the party’s future—and test Nigeria’s commitment to upholding democratic principles.
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