The Nasarawa State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) has issued a stern warning to various support groups affiliated with Peter Obi, the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, against conducting activities under the LP banner without proper authorization. Alexander Ombugu, the state chairman, expressed concerns during a press briefing in Lafia, stating that these groups, comprising individuals not officially registered as LP members, have been organizing events across the state’s 13 local government areas, falsely claiming to represent the party and its leadership. This unauthorized activity, according to Ombugu, is not only embarrassing but also potentially divisive, threatening the party’s unity. He urged the support groups to seek clearance from the LP leadership before undertaking any activities if they wish to remain associated with the party in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
Ombugu’s primary concern lies with the potential for misrepresentation and confusion caused by these unauthorized actions. The support groups’ claim of operating under the LP’s authority creates a false impression, potentially misleading the public and party members alike. This unauthorized representation could also lead to internal conflicts and undermine the party’s structure and authority. The chairman’s call for consultation serves as a plea for order and unity, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established party protocols and respecting its official leadership. He also called on security agencies and residents to monitor the activities of these groups to prevent further unauthorized activity.
Beyond addressing the issue of unauthorized activities by support groups, Ombugu also expressed his disappointment with Peter Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti, accusing them of attempting to destabilize the party for personal gain. He reiterated the state chapter’s unwavering support for the embattled national chairman, Julius Abure, despite the political challenges he faces. Ombugu condemned what he perceived as a move to create factions within the party, likely motivated by strategic positioning for the 2027 elections. He emphasized that the LP remains united under Abure’s leadership and cautioned against actions that could sow discord within the party.
The Nasarawa State LP chairman strongly condemned a recent meeting held by some suspended members of the party, during which an interim National Working Committee was established. Ombugu declared the meeting and its outcome illegal and unconstitutional, emphasizing the Supreme Court’s affirmation of Julius Abure’s leadership as the national chairman. He viewed the meeting as a deliberate attempt to further divide the party and urged LP members to disregard any directives emanating from it. By denouncing this unauthorized gathering, Ombugu aimed to reinforce Abure’s legitimacy and maintain party unity under his leadership.
Ombugu’s comments underscore the internal tensions within the Labour Party, particularly between the national leadership and some influential figures like Obi and Otti. While Obi’s support groups operate independently, their actions are indirectly contributing to the broader struggle for control within the party. Ombugu’s statement can be interpreted as a strategic move to consolidate power behind Abure, portraying him as the legitimate authority and dismissing dissenting voices as disruptive elements attempting to destabilize the party. The underlying power dynamics suggest a complex interplay of personal ambitions, political maneuvering, and differing visions for the party’s future.
In conclusion, Ombugu’s press briefing highlights the multifaceted challenges confronting the Labour Party in Nasarawa State. His call for order and unity within the party, particularly regarding unauthorized support group activities, underscores the need for adherence to established party protocols and respect for its leadership. His condemnation of the actions of Peter Obi and Alex Otti, coupled with his unwavering support for Julius Abure, further illuminates the internal power struggles and potential for factionalism within the party. Ultimately, his appeal for reconciliation and unity reveals the imperative to address internal differences constructively to ensure the party’s stability and growth as it looks toward future elections. The events in Nasarawa State offer a microcosm of the broader challenges facing the Labour Party nationwide as it navigates the post-2023 election landscape.
