The leadership crisis within the Labour Party has escalated, with the National Working Committee accusing Joe Ajaero, the National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, of attempting to oust the current National Chairman, Julius Abure. This accusation comes in response to an open letter from the Nigeria Labour Congress Political Commission, alleging that Abure and the NWC are planning a ‘secret’ national convention in Umuahia on March 27 to re-elect Abure as the party’s ‘sole administrator.’
The letter, signed by Titus Amba and Chris Uyot, also claims that Abure previously tried to extend his tenure unilaterally in April 2023, but was stopped by the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi. The political wing of the NLC deems this planned convention as illegal and has called for Abure’s immediate resignation, advocating for a caretaker transition committee to organize a legitimate national convention.
In response, the Labour Party leadership rejected these demands, accusing Ajaero of orchestrating the directive to further his own ambition of becoming the next national chairman. The National Publicity Secretary of the LP, Obiora Ifoh, emphasized that the party will not take orders from unionists who are not card-carrying members.
Ifoh affirmed that the national convention in Umuahia will proceed as planned on March 27, despite the NLC’s objections. He criticized the NLC’s interference in party affairs, urging Ajaero to resign as NLC President if he wishes to contest the LP chairmanship. Ifoh highlighted the importance of grassroots engagement in party politics and emphasized the distinction between the Labour Party and the Nigeria Labour Congress.
The LP spokesperson reiterated the party’s commitment to holding the convention and emphasized ongoing consultations with stakeholders. The Labour Party remains steadfast in its resolve to proceed with its party programs and ensure a smooth transition of leadership on March 27.