A Federal High Court has reportedly removed Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP) and ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise the Nenadi Usman–led National Executive Committee of the party.
The ruling, delivered on Monday, followed a suit challenging the legitimacy of the Abure-led leadership and the conduct of the party’s internal affairs. The court held that the processes that produced the Abure-led executive were not in compliance with the Labour Party’s constitution and relevant electoral laws.
In its judgment, the court directed INEC to immediately accord official recognition to the Nenadi Usman–led exco as the authentic leadership of the Labour Party, pending the conduct of a valid and constitutionally compliant national convention.
Reacting to the development, supporters of the Nenadi Usman faction described the ruling as a victory for internal democracy and the rule of law within the party. They urged all party members to respect the court’s decision and work towards unity and reconciliation.
However, allies of Julius Abure have faulted the judgment, insisting that the Abure-led leadership remains legitimate. They indicated that the party would study the ruling and explore available legal options, including the possibility of an appeal.
The Labour Party has been embroiled in a protracted leadership crisis in recent months, with multiple factions laying claim to the party’s national leadership. The dispute has raised concerns about the party’s stability ahead of future elections.
As of the time of filing this report, INEC had yet to issue an official statement on the court order or its plans regarding the recognition of the Nenadi Usman–led executive.
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