The Labour Party has plunged deeper into internal crisis as its caretaker committee, led by Senator Nenadi Usman, opens an investigation into Barrister Julius Abure over serious allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and anti-party conduct.
At a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, 7 May 2025, Senator Usman accused Abure of clinging to the position of national chairman even after being removed and using the party as a personal vehicle to chase selfish ambitions.
“Rather than foster unity within the Labour Party, Abure has exploited his position for personal enrichment,” Usman said, describing a pattern of behaviour that she claimed had deeply fractured the party’s internal structure.
To address the situation, the committee has set up a disciplinary panel headed by Senator Ireti Kingibe, with Peter Ameh serving as secretary.
The panel has been tasked with investigating petitions against Abure and recommending disciplinary measures where necessary. Abure has been summoned to appear before the panel to respond to the allegations.
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The committee also criticised Abure for allegedly hijacking party structures without due process, accusing him of failing to organise proper ward, local government, state, and zonal congresses ahead of a national convention.
According to Usman, the caretaker committee is determined to restore internal democracy to the Labour Party. She said a timetable for congresses and the election of new national executives would be released soon.
This move comes just days after the Abure-led faction of the party announced its own disciplinary action, this time targeting Abia State Governor Alex Otti and several other members over what it described as anti-party behaviour.
In a statement, Abure’s camp said, “The NEC reviewed the anti-party activities of Alex Otti, the Abia State Governor,” and confirmed that a committee chaired by Ayo Olorunfemi had been formed to investigate. The committee has two weeks to submit its report.
With both factions now accusing each other of misconduct, the Labour Party finds itself at a crossroads, struggling to repair widening cracks in its leadership and rebuild trust among members.