The Labour Party (LP) in Lagos State has vehemently condemned a violent attack on its secretariat that occurred on Monday, August 7, 2023, while key party officials were attending a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja. Chairperson of the Lagos LP, Mrs. Dayo Ekong, addressed a press conference the following day, detailing the extent of the damage and calling for a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible. She characterized the attack as a heinous crime against the state, perpetrated by “debased and morally bankrupt miscreants” who should face the full consequences of their actions. The party has formally requested intervention from President Bola Tinubu, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and the State Security Director to ensure a swift and decisive response to this incident.
The attack, allegedly led by a Mr. Rasheed Bamishe, involved a group of armed thugs who forcibly entered the LP secretariat located at 59 Oduduwa Way, GRA Ikeja. According to Mrs. Ekong, the assailants employed dangerous weapons, charms, and fetish objects during the invasion. They vandalized offices, destroyed furniture and fittings, and stole valuables worth hundreds of millions of Naira, including both local and foreign currencies. Furthermore, sensitive documents and files were also removed from the premises after file cabinets were forcefully opened. Beyond the material damage, the attackers also physically assaulted and injured five staff members present at the secretariat during the incident. These individuals are currently receiving medical treatment and are reportedly recovering.
The Lagos LP chairperson alleges that the attack was orchestrated with the support and sponsorship of certain influential figures within the party in Lagos State, promising to expose their identities in due course. She believes the motive behind the attack was multifaceted, encompassing theft, intentional injury, and a potential attempt on the lives of the party’s staff and leadership. Mrs. Ekong categorically stated that such behavior is antithetical to the values of the Labour Party and will not be tolerated under her leadership. She emphasized that the LP is a party for dedicated and patriotic Nigerians committed to building an egalitarian society based on the rule of law and social justice.
Mrs. Ekong has vowed to pursue all legal avenues to ensure that the perpetrators and their backers are brought to justice, regardless of their position or influence. She described the incident as an act of criminal vandalism and armed robbery masquerading as politics, representing a dangerous escalation of internal disputes. The chairperson reiterated that under the national leadership of Mr. Julius Abure and her chairmanship, there are no vacancies within any organ of the Labour Party, referencing the Supreme Court’s final judgment on the matter. She affirmed that the leadership of the party is settled and not open for debate.
The Lagos LP Secretary, Sam Okpala, echoed the chairperson’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for the culprits to be punished to serve as a deterrent against future attacks. The party’s call for a comprehensive investigation signals their commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability for the violent intrusion and the damages inflicted. The incident underscores the internal tensions within the Labour Party and highlights the importance of resolving disputes through lawful and peaceful means. The allegations of internal involvement further complicate the situation, suggesting a deeper power struggle within the party’s ranks.
The attack on the Labour Party secretariat is a serious incident that raises concerns about the safety and security of political parties and their members in Nigeria. The use of violence and intimidation in political disputes is unacceptable and undermines the democratic process. The authorities must take swift action to investigate this incident thoroughly, apprehend the perpetrators, and bring them to justice. Furthermore, it is essential for all political parties to condemn violence and promote a culture of peaceful dialogue and respect for the rule of law. This incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions and the importance of vigilance in protecting them.
