Abure-led LP faction targets prominent members as internal rift escalates; opposition coalition talks rejected
The internal crisis within the Labour Party (LP) has intensified, as the faction led by Julius Abure announced the indefinite suspension of several high-profile members, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti and Senator Ireti Kingibe of the Federal Capital Territory, over alleged anti-party activities.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Wednesday by Umar Farouk Ibrahim, National Secretary of the Abure-led faction. The suspended members also include Darlington Nwokocha, Victor Afam Ogene, Amobi Ogah, and Seyi Sowunmi.
Farouk revealed that the action followed the findings of a five-member disciplinary committee headed by Ayo Olorunfemi, the Deputy National Chairman, which was inaugurated on May 2. The party’s National Executive Committee has reportedly ratified the panel’s recommendations.
“The suspended individuals will no longer act for and on behalf of the Labour Party,” Farouk stated, adding that the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, National Assembly, INEC, and security agencies have been notified.
Nenadi Usman Not Recognized as Member, Says Abure Camp
Farouk also clarified why Nenadi Usman, head of the rival caretaker committee, was not among those suspended, stating that she is not a registered member of the party and therefore ineligible for internal disciplinary measures.
“She is a member of the Obidient Support Group and not an LP member. We won’t dignify her with sanctions,” he said.
No Interest in Opposition Coalition, Abure Faction Declares
In a firm rejection of ongoing discussions about forming a coalition of opposition parties, the Abure faction stated its non-participation, citing the “lack of capacity, character, and competence” of its initiators.
This move is seen as further distancing the LP faction from efforts aimed at consolidating opposition power ahead of the 2027 elections.
Factional Divide Worsens as Usman Group Hits Back
The Labour Party is now split into two factions — the Abure-led group and the Usman-led caretaker committee, which has also initiated a separate investigation into Abure. Senator Ireti Kingibe, now suspended by the Abure faction, heads the panel investigating Abure on allegations of corruption, financial misconduct, and anti-party behavior.
In a recent press briefing, Nenadi Usman accused Abure of falsely parading himself as national chairman, despite allegedly being removed by the Supreme Court.
