The Labour Party’s Edo State governorship campaign has hit a snag as National Chairman Julius Abure pulls out, citing betrayal by Peter Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti.
At the party’s final mega campaign rally, key figures like Peter Obi, Yusuf Baba-Ahmed, Nenadi Usman, and Aisha Yesufu rallied support for candidate Olumide Akpata. Notably absent were Abure and his disputed National Working Committee (NWC) members.
In a press conference, Abure’s faction accused Obi and Otti of colluding with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to undermine them. National Publicity Secretary Obiora Ifoh stated:
“The party is deeply saddened by the actions of these leaders, including our former presidential candidate and our only governor, who should be supporting the party during these tough times.”
Ifoh expressed disappointment, referencing the party’s support for Obi and Otti during the 2023 general election. He highlighted how the party backed Otti’s governorship bid despite pressure.
“The same leaders now dancing ‘Gwo gwo gwo ngwo’ with us are the ones betraying the party,” Ifoh lamented.
This drama unfolded after Labour Party took INEC to court over recognizing the Nenadi Usman-led caretaker committee. INEC claimed Abure’s leadership tenure had expired, justifying the new committee.
Ifoh vowed to challenge INEC’s actions, accusing them of destabilizing the party. He warned:
“Let us not be fooled. INEC has not changed, and come 2027, they will once again serve you the same disappointment.”
The Abure faction feels sidelined by the caretaker committee appointment and INEC’s support. The Labour Party’s internal conflict may impact its chances in the Edo governorship election on September 21.
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