The Labour Party (LP) in Nigeria erupted in celebration following the official receipt of the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Supreme Court judgment concerning the party’s protracted leadership tussle. The judgment unequivocally affirmed the legitimacy of the Esther Nenadi Usman-led National Caretaker Committee, bringing an end to months of uncertainty and internal strife. Governor Alex Otti, a key figure in the LP, presented the 48-page document during a stakeholders’ engagement in Abuja, emphasizing its clarity in recognizing the Usman-led committee as the authentic leadership of the party. This marked a significant victory for the faction that had consistently maintained their adherence to the party’s constitution and due process.
The Supreme Court ruling effectively nullified previous court decisions that had recognized Julius Abure as the national chairman. The judgment declared that the lower courts lacked jurisdiction to entertain Abure’s claims and consequently invalidated their pronouncements. By extension, Abure’s cross-appeal was also dismissed. This decisive intervention by the apex court provided much-needed clarity and paved the way for the LP to move forward and consolidate its ranks under the Usman-led committee. The receipt of the CTC served as a tangible symbol of the party’s renewed unity and focus.
Governor Otti recounted the events leading up to the Supreme Court judgment, highlighting his efforts to broker a peaceful resolution with Abure. He revealed that he had offered Abure the chairmanship of the LP Board of Trustees as a compromise, acknowledging his past contributions to the party. However, Abure reportedly declined the offer. Despite this, Otti reiterated his commitment to fostering reconciliation and extended an olive branch to Abure and his former National Working Committee (NWC) members. This gesture underscored the party’s desire to move beyond the divisive leadership contest and unite all members under a common banner.
Otti emphasized the importance of adherence to party constitutions and internal regulations to avoid protracted legal battles that often hinder political progress. He appealed to all political parties to prioritize internal democracy and resolve disputes through established mechanisms rather than resorting to litigation. This call for adherence to internal processes aimed to minimize disruptions and promote stability within political organizations. He underscored the principle of leadership transition at the expiration of tenure, advocating for a smooth handover of power to avoid unnecessary conflicts and power struggles.
Peter Obi, the LP’s 2023 presidential candidate, expressed his gratitude to the party’s supporters and Nigerians for their unwavering patience and steadfast support throughout the leadership crisis. He affirmed the party’s commitment to due process and announced their immediate intention to present the CTC to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This move aimed to formally notify INEC of the Supreme Court’s decision and initiate the necessary procedures to update their records, effectively replacing Abure’s NWC with the Usman-led committee. Obi’s proactive approach demonstrated the LP’s resolve to swiftly implement the court’s ruling and solidify its position under the newly affirmed leadership.
The presentation of the CTC to INEC marked a crucial step in the LP’s journey towards rebuilding and revitalizing the party structure. With the legal battle now concluded, the party could finally focus on its political agenda and prepare for future elections. The emphasis on unity and adherence to constitutional processes signified a commitment to internal democracy and responsible governance. This renewed focus, combined with the demonstrable support of its members and key figures like Peter Obi, positioned the LP to navigate the complexities of the Nigerian political landscape and solidify its role as a significant force in the nation’s political discourse. The resolution of the leadership crisis marked a fresh chapter for the Labour Party, offering a renewed opportunity to consolidate its position and pursue its political objectives with renewed vigour.
