Labour Party indefinitely suspended Abia State Governor Otti and others

The Labour Party (LP) in Nigeria has been embroiled in a significant leadership crisis, leading to the indefinite suspension of several prominent members over alleged anti-party activities. On May 7, 2025, the Julius Abure-led faction of the LP announced the suspension of six key figures:

• • Governor Alex Otti of Abia State

• • Senator Ireti Kingibe representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

• • Senator Darlington Nwokocha

• • Honorable Victor Afam Ogene

• • Honorable Amobi Ogah

• • Honorable Seyi Sowunmi

The suspension was announced by the party’s National Secretary, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, who stated that the decision followed the recommendations of a five-member disciplinary committee established on May 2 to investigate allegations of anti-party conduct. The committee’s report was subsequently ratified by the National Executive Council of the party. (thecable.ng)

The suspended members have been barred from participating in any party activities, and the party has directed all relevant institutions, including the Nigeria Governors Forum, the National Assembly, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and security agencies, to take note of the suspensions. (thecable.ng)

In response to the suspension, Governor Alex Otti condemned the action, describing it as a “joke taken too far and an affront on democracy.” He accused Julius Abure of impersonation and called for his arrest by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. (allafrica.com)

The LP has been grappling with a deepening leadership crisis, resulting in a split into two factions. The Abure-led faction has been at odds with the faction led by Senator Nenadi Usman, who was appointed to manage the party’s affairs by the 2023 LP presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and Governor Otti. However, Usman’s appointment was reversed after a federal court recognized Abure as the authentic national chairman of the LP. (allafrica.com)

The party has also expressed its position on political independence, stating that it is not interested in any coalition or merger ahead of the 2027 general elections. The LP intends to contest the elections as a standalone party, emphasizing its commitment to internal unity and self-reliance. (vanguardngr.com)

This development underscores the ongoing challenges within the Labour Party as it seeks to navigate internal disputes and maintain its position in Nigeria’s political landscape.