***Abure’s Camp in Panick Mode, Raises Alarm Over Alleged Illegal Primaries in Anambra
Following the resolution of internal leadership disputes by the Supreme Court, the Labour Party has entered a new phase of unity and purpose. Acting National Chairperson, Senator Nenadi Usman, declared a “total rebuild” of the party, emphasizing a renewed focus on strength and solidarity.
This statement came as the faction loyal to former chairman Julius Abure raised concerns over alleged illegal governorship primaries in Anambra State. They stressed that the party had already completed its official primaries and submitted the chosen candidate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
During a critical National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja on April 9, Usman outlined the party’s transformation, saying, “Now is not the time for distraction or division — now is the time to build.” The meeting was attended by key figures, including former presidential candidate Peter Obi, his running mate Dr. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, elected lawmakers, NLC and TUC leaders, and Obidient Movement representatives.
Usman’s appointment as Acting National Chair followed a unanimous vote of confidence by NEC, effectively putting an end to months of internal conflicts. She pledged a new era of internal democracy, inclusion, and preparation for upcoming elections.
“This is not just a procedural step — it’s a commitment to due process and transparent governance. A new Labour Party will rise from this moment,” Usman stated, presenting the Supreme Court ruling and NEC resolutions to INEC.
Striking a balance between gratitude and urgency, Usman acknowledged party members’ sacrifices, reaffirmed allegiance to Labour’s core values, and praised Peter Obi as a “moral compass and visionary leader.” The party now focuses on consolidating grassroots support, strengthening alliances with organized labor, and reigniting the hope that resonated with millions of Nigerians during the 2023 elections.
Political analysts suggest that this unified leadership transition may revitalize the Labour Party, energizing it as it looks toward the 2027 elections.
“The New Nigeria,” Usman remarked, “is not a dream deferred. It is a vision in progress.”
Meanwhile, a statement from the Labour Party’s former National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, clarified the party’s position, disassociating itself from any unauthorized primaries or actions. The statement called for an immediate halt to activities undermining the party’s legitimate process.
On April 5, 2025, the party successfully conducted its primaries in full compliance with INEC regulations and the Electoral Act 2022, after issuing the mandatory 21-day notice to INEC. Two aspirants, John Nwosu and Chief Moghalu, contested the primaries, with Moghalu securing victory with 573 delegate votes, while Nwosu garnered 19 votes.
Ifoh confirmed that the Labour Party had issued a certificate of return to Moghalu and submitted his name to INEC as the official candidate for the November 2025 governorship election. The process was conducted transparently and monitored by INEC officials.
As per INEC’s directive, all political parties must conclude their primaries by April 10, 2025, in accordance with Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022. The Labour Party adhered to these guidelines without delay.
“We are therefore disassociating the party from any other primaries being conducted by other groups or individuals,” Ifoh stated, stressing that disciplinary actions would be taken against any member attempting to disrupt the process.
The camp also expressed concern over governance in Anambra, urging voters to support the Labour Party’s candidate, described as the “best and most experienced” choice to lead the state toward positive change.
“The Labour Party is committed to rescuing Anambra from bad governance, and our candidate is well-suited to bring about transformation,” Ifoh concluded.
As the Anambra governorship race intensifies, the Labour Party stands firm in defending the legitimacy of its candidate and preventing any attempts to derail the electoral process.
