Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for formally recognising Senator Nenadi Usman’s leadership as the legitimate executive of the Labour Party, calling the decision “long overdue” and in line with the Supreme Court’s ruling.
Speaking through his media adviser, Ferdinand Ekeoma, in Umuahia, Otti said the commission’s action marked an important step towards restoring peace and cohesion within the party.
“We are grateful to INEC and all government agencies that ensured the Supreme Court’s judgment was respected,” Otti said. “It was long expected. When you consider what transpired in court and INEC’s counter-affidavit — which clearly stated Julius Abure’s tenure had expired — this decision restores order and normalcy.”
The governor urged Abure, the party’s former national chairman, to accept the decision and work with the current leadership to rebuild the party.
“If they are truly desirous of moving our party forward, they should join hands with all the progressives to ensure we head in the right direction,” he said.
Otti noted that the commission’s decision aligned with the Supreme Court’s earlier affirmation of Abud’s leadership, stressing that rulings from the nation’s highest court must be respected without delay.
“Abure didn’t need to wait for INEC to act. But now that the commission has moved in accordance with the law, it’s time for reconciliation,” he added.
The Labour Party has been mired in a leadership dispute that split its ranks in recent months. Party insiders say the INEC recognition could mark the start of a fragile peace — if all sides commit to it.
