The internal turmoil rocking the Labour Party (LP) has taken a dramatic new turn, as both rival factions intensified their power tussle on Thursday with a fresh round of suspensions, corruption allegations, and the formation of a disciplinary panel aimed at deepening scrutiny into the party's fractured leadership.
The faction led by Senator Nenadi Usman took a bold step by announcing the constitution of a six-member disciplinary committee to investigate factional national chairman Julius Abure, whom they described as an “impostor.” Usman’s camp accused Abure of massive corruption, financial misappropriation, and actions deemed to be against the interests of the party.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Senator Usman declared that the National Executive Council (NEC), operating under the Labour Party Constitution (1999 as amended), had resolved to take disciplinary measures to rescue the party from what she termed "continued degeneration under Abure's illegitimate leadership."
The committee, tasked with probing the allegations against Abure, is chaired by Senator Ireti Kingibe and includes Peter Ameh (Secretary), Kumba Mbemba, Okejo Onwakalusi, Ibrahim Abdulkarim, and former acting National Chairman Mrs. Maria Lebeke. They were given a 21-day deadline to carry out a full investigation and submit a report with appropriate recommendations.
Senator Usman stressed that the panel must uphold transparency and due process, ensuring all parties involved receive a fair hearing. She further asserted that Abure and his allies had attempted to derail the party’s credibility and that her leadership was committed to steering the LP back toward internal accountability and public trust.
In a retaliatory move, the Abure-led faction struck back by announcing the suspension of six influential members of Usman’s camp, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti and Senator Ireti Kingibe herself—who ironically chairs the newly inaugurated disciplinary committee. This countermeasure underscores the intensity of the feud that has now placed some of the party’s most high-profile figures in direct conflict.
The deepening crisis raises questions about the future of the Labour Party, especially in the buildup to future elections, where unity and organizational cohesion will be crucial. Political analysts warn that if unresolved, the rift could significantly weaken the party’s national influence and erode voter confidence in its leadership.
With accusations flying and no side showing signs of backing down, the battle for the soul of the Labour Party rages on, threatening to tear it apart unless swift reconciliation efforts are initiated.
