Amidst opposition from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr. Julius Abure secured his re-election as the national chairman of the Labour Party for a second term, as announced yesterday following a unanimous affirmation by delegates. Despite the absence of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) monitoring, the purported national convention took place in Nnewi, Anambra State.
While INEC confirmed its non-participation in the event, citing lack of monitoring, the Abure-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the Labour Party asserted that the convention adhered to the party’s constitution and INEC’s guidelines. National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Obiora Ifoh, emphasized that proper notification had been provided to INEC within the required timeframe, dismissing claims of non-compliance as “the handiwork of mischief makers.”
Shortly after his re-election, Abure declared vacant positions for the Deputy National Chairmen of the party, earmarked for the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), among others. The convention empowered the NWC to address existing vacancies within the party’s structure.
In a comprehensive communique issued post-convention, the Labour Party reviewed the nation’s current state, expressing concerns over escalating insecurity, economic challenges, and the need for restructuring the security architecture. The convention urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement proactive measures to salvage the economy, enhance security, and encourage indigenous production.
Furthermore, the convention endorsed the audited financial report for the 2022-2023 fiscal years and approved the 2024 annual budget. LP assured its members of a promising future and urged the consolidation of party structures at all levels.
Despite the absence of prominent figures like Peter Obi and Datti-Ahmed, the convention proceeded smoothly, with Abure securing another term alongside elected national officers. INEC’s absence did not hinder the convention’s legitimacy, according to LP officials, who emphasized compliance with constitutional and regulatory requirements.
