The Edo State chapter of the Labour Party has attributed the ongoing crisis within the party to its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, rather than the National Chairman, Julius Abure. According to the State Chairman, Elizabeth Ativie, the crisis stemmed from Obi’s failure to address post-primary election disputes across the country.
Ativie made these remarks during a press briefing in Benin City, responding to allegations made by Precious Oruche against Abure. Oruche had accused Abure of frustrating Nigerians and claimed that the police had declared him wanted for alleged forgery. Ativie disputed these claims, stating that they were false and part of a larger effort to destabilize the party.
The Labour Party’s national leadership had decided to zone the governorship ticket to the Edo Central senatorial district during the 2024 election, following a similar decision by the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party. However, Obi allegedly intervened, endorsing Olumide Akpata as the party’s candidate instead of implementing the National Working Committee’s decision.
Ativie emphasized that Obi’s actions, including convening an unauthorized stakeholders meeting in Umuahia, had led to the party’s factionalization. She noted that despite the party’s support for Obi during his presidential campaign, he had not demonstrated appreciation or commitment to the party’s vision.
The Edo State chapter’s allegations against Obi highlight the deepening divisions within the Labour Party. As the party navigates this crisis, its ability to present a unified front and address internal conflicts will be crucial in determining its future prospects. The developments also underscore the challenges faced by political parties in Nigeria, where internal power struggles and personal ambitions can often overshadow collective goals and ideology.
