The Labour Party’s National Working Committee, led by Julius Abure, has rebuffed threats of a leadership takeover by a faction purportedly representing the party’s Board of Trustees, led by Comrade SOZ Ejiofor.
In a statement released by the National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, the party clarified that it was unaware of any existing Board of Trustees, as it had not yet been constituted. The statement followed the successful national convention held in Nnewi, Anambra State, where Barrister Julius Abure was unanimously elected by over 350 delegates in attendance.
Despite the convention’s success, the party expressed surprise at statements circulating on social media, allegedly from Comrade SOZ Ejiofor, claiming leadership of the party on behalf of the Board of Trustees. The party sympathized with Ejiofor, noting his absence from party activities for over a decade until recent involvement spurred by disgruntled elements within the Nigerian Labour Congress.
Ifoh highlighted Ejiofor’s lack of recent engagement with the party, questioning his membership status and contribution. He emphasized that the Labour Party had no knowledge of a Board of Trustees, pointing out that proposed members had since left the party for other political affiliations.
The statement called for an end to political maneuvers, asserting Abure’s legitimacy as the newly elected National Chairman. It urged detractors, including Ejiofor and Ajaero, to refrain from meddling in the party’s internal affairs, emphasizing adherence to party rules and procedures.
The Labour Party reiterated its independence as a political entity, distinct from its founding body, and called for unity among members to address national challenges.
