The Julius Abure-led National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Labour Party has escalated its internal crisis by threatening disciplinary action against Abia State Governor Alex Otti and former presidential candidate Peter Obi over alleged anti-party activities. The warning came during a tense NEC meeting at the party’s Abuja headquarters on Monday, where leadership also ousted House of Representatives caucus leader Afam Ogene.
Governor Otti faces potential sanctions for convening what the NEC describes as an “illegal” stakeholders meeting scheduled for April 9 in Umuahia. The communique, read by National Secretary Umar Farouk, accused Otti of multiple violations including conducting local government elections through another party and plotting to defect ahead of the 2027 elections. “NEC will not hesitate to discipline him under Article 19 of our constitution,” Farouk stated.
The leadership similarly cautioned Peter Obi against actions undermining party unity, warning that “no member, regardless of status, will be spared” if found culpable. This rebuke follows months of simmering tensions between Obi’s faction and the Abure-led executive.
In a sweeping reorganization, the NEC removed Hon. Afam Ogene as House caucus leader, citing poor representation of party ideology and alleged financial mismanagement. Barr. Ben Etanabene was appointed as replacement, with demands for Ogene to return all party funds and properties immediately.
The meeting reaffirmed the legitimacy of Abure’s leadership following the Supreme Court’s recent decision upholding party autonomy in internal matters. Abure dismissed rival factions as “unconstitutional contraptions,” specifically targeting groups led by Senators Nenadi Usman and Darlington Nwokocha.
Political analysts suggest the public showdown reflects deeper fractures within the party, with the Abure faction consolidating control ahead of future elections. The NEC’s stance sets the stage for potential mass suspensions as it vows to enforce party discipline “at all costs.” Observers warn the infighting could weaken Labour Party’s opposition credibility unless resolved swiftly.
