Labour Party Disowns Abure’s Election Screening Committee in Abia

iexclusivenews – The Labour Party in Abia State has publicly distanced itself from a committee established by Julius Abure’s faction to oversee the upcoming November 2, 2024, local government elections. This development has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, raising questions about the party’s internal cohesion and its readiness for the Abia LG Poll.

The controversy erupted when the Abure faction announced the formation of a screening committee, appointing Hon. Ceekay Igara, a former state chairman, as its head. The committee, which includes Rev. Andrew Ohiagba, the state party secretary, called for interested members across Abia’s three senatorial zones to obtain nomination and expression of interest forms from zonal offices.

However, Emmanuel Oti, the current State Chairman of the Labour Party in Abia, swiftly denounced the committee’s legitimacy. In a strongly worded statement, Oti warned the public against engaging with anyone outside his leadership, citing crucial changes in the party’s national structure.

Oti revealed a significant development that has reshaped the party’s dynamics. According to him, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) no longer recognizes Julius Abure as the Labour Party’s national chairman. This decision stems from the expiration of Abure’s tenure and that of his executive committee.

In response to this leadership vacuum, the party has established a national caretaker committee led by Senator Esther Nenadi Usman. This committee now holds the reins of power, overseeing all party affairs, including the crucial task of conducting primaries for the upcoming Abia LG Poll.

Labour Party Abia State Chapter Warnings and Clarifications

The Labour Party’s Abia State Chapter has issued a clear warning to the public, urging them to disregard any unauthorized announcements. Oti emphasized that Mr. Igara’s tenure had expired alongside other members of the state and national working committees, prompting INEC’s decision to withdraw recognition.

“Any statement or instruction concerning the affairs of the party shall emanate from the caretaker committee,” Oti declared. He cautioned that any contrary actions should be viewed as impersonation and reported to the appropriate authorities.

The party leadership stressed its commitment to conducting a fair and transparent process for the Abia LG Poll. “The Labour Party, Abia State, is not interested in extorting members of the public nor obtaining money from them by trick,” Oti assured. He emphasized the party’s dedication to ensuring a responsible, orderly, and peaceful selection of candidates.

Party Officials Speak Out: Rejecting the Screening Committee

In an exclusive interview in Umuahia, Rev. Andrew Ohiagba, the State Secretary of the Labour Party, added his voice to the growing chorus of dissent. Ohiagba unequivocally rejected his alleged membership in the screening committee, urging party faithful to disregard its existence entirely.

Ohiagba’s statement revealed a deeper rift within the party structure. He disclosed that the state working committee had no involvement in the committee’s formation, raising questions about the decision-making process and internal communication within the Labour Party.

As the controversy unfolds, aspiring candidates find themselves caught in the crossfire. Ohiagba issued a stern warning to potential office-seekers, advising them against any dealings with the disputed committee. This cautionary message underscores the potential risks and uncertainties surrounding the upcoming Abia LG Poll.

Implications for Abia’s Political Landscape

The Labour Party’s internal strife comes at a critical juncture, with the local government elections looming on the horizon. This discord threatens to undermine the party’s effectiveness and credibility in the eyes of voters, potentially impacting its performance in the Abia LG Poll.

As the situation continues to develop, all eyes are on the national caretaker committee led by Senator Esther Nenadi Usman. Their handling of this crisis and ability to unite the fractured party will be crucial in determining the Labour Party’s fate in the upcoming elections.

The unfolding drama serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in Nigeria’s political landscape. As the Abia LG Poll approaches, voters and political observers alike will be watching closely to see how this internal party conflict resolves and what it means for the future of local governance in Abia State.