The opposition Labour Party in Nigeria has taken a decisive step by suspending its National Treasurer, Oluchi Opara, for a period of six months. This move comes in the wake of a heated disagreement with Julius Abure, the party’s National Chairman, regarding the alleged mishandling of N3.5 billion campaign funds.
The announcement of Opara’s suspension was made during a press conference held by the party’s National Working Committee at its secretariat in Abuja. This development follows a series of accusations leveled by Opara against Julius Abure, specifically regarding the whereabouts of the N3.5 billion raised from the party’s nomination forms and fundraising activities leading up to the February 2023 general election.
In response to Opara’s allegations, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, denounced her as a destabilizing force within the party. Ifoh stated that Opara’s actions were perceived as a direct affront to the party’s integrity and to the efforts of millions of dedicated members who have worked tirelessly to uphold the party’s image.
Consequently, the disciplinary committee has recommended, through the National Working Committee, that Ms. Oluchi Opara be suspended from the Labour Party for a minimum of six months, effective immediately. This decision is a significant development in the ongoing saga surrounding the alleged misappropriation of campaign funds and the internal strife within the Labour Party.