Labour Party Chairman Calls for Reconciliation with Peter Obi, Alex Otti

Barrister Julius Abure, the national chairman of the Labour Party (LP), has publicly expressed readiness to reconcile with key party members, including the 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi and Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti, along with other stakeholders. This statement was made during a meeting between the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and political parties at INEC’s headquarters in Abuja, as confirmed by the national publicity secretary Obiora Ifoh.

Abure described the internal disagreements within the party as exaggerated and emphasized that they should be treated as a “family affair” to be resolved amicably. He highlighted the importance of unity within the party, stating, “I am sure that very soon, all our differences will be put aside, and we will again speak authoritatively with one voice and come out stronger and very effective in the political space.”

He acknowledged that conflicts of interest are inherent in politics but expressed confidence that these issues would lead to a stronger, more resilient party. “There is no political party without some differences, it is a game of interests and there will always be conflicting interests in every political environment. I believe we will come out better and stronger,” Abure remarked.

The LP chairman also extended his gratitude towards the judiciary, appreciating the High Court and Court of Appeal for delivering judgments in favor of the Labour Party, which he believes align with legal frameworks including the Nigerian Constitution, electoral laws, and the party’s constitution.

Abure committed to using his leadership to foster reconciliation among all aggrieved party members and to reposition the party for future electoral contests. He stressed the need for unity, saying, “For me, there are no hard feelings. Like I said before, all those who may have one grievance or the other against the leadership of the party, it is an opportunity for all of us to come together, reconcile our differences and chart a way forward for our party.”

He appealed to all members to prioritize the interests of Nigeria and the party over personal grievances, urging them to return and work together for a collective goal. “I want to say essentially, that the squabbles within the party ought to be a family affair and that is how I see it. For me, I am open for reconciliation and the party will apply every measure to bring everybody within the party for us to discuss and chart a way forward for the party,” Abure concluded.