Former National Treasurer of the Labour Party, Oluchi Oparah, has hailed the Court of Appeal judgment affirming Nenadi Esther Usman as National Chairman, describing it as a landmark victory for democracy, due process, and constitutional order.
In a congratulatory message, Oparah commended Usman, National Secretary Darlington Nwokocha, and Abia State Governor Alex Chioma Otti, as well as party faithful across the country, for what she termed a defining moment in the party’s history.
She said the ruling reinforces the principle that political parties must be allowed to manage their internal affairs without undue interference, while also validating the Labour Party’s commitment to internal democracy and the rule of law. Oparah urged members to remain united and channel the momentum into the forthcoming congresses and national convention.
Her reaction followed a decisive judgment by the Court of Appeal Nigeria, Abuja Division, which dismissed the appeal filed by Julius Abure and affirmed Usman as the legitimate leader of the party.
In a strongly worded ruling, the appellate court described Abure’s appeal as lacking merit and constituting an abuse of court process, imposing a cost of N10 million against him. The court also criticised an earlier interim order issued by a Nasarawa State High Court against Usman, declaring it reckless and made without jurisdiction.
The justices held that the formation of the party’s interim leadership committee remains an internal affair, beyond undue judicial interference, while affirming that the substantive case at the lower court rightly involved the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), thereby justifying the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court.
By upholding the lower court’s decision, the appellate court aligned with the earlier position of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which had nullified the convention that produced Abure.
The ruling marks a significant turning point in the prolonged leadership tussle within the Labour Party, consolidating Usman’s position while intensifying pressure on rival factions. However, indications that Abure may head to the Supreme Court suggest that the legal battle could still continue.
For now, Oparah’s reaction captures the mood within the Usman camp—one of vindication, renewed confidence, and a call for unity as the party moves to stabilise its structures ahead of future political contests.
Oparah Hails Appeal Court Verdict as Labour Party Crisis Takes Dramatic Turn
