The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it is still reviewing the recent Supreme Court judgment regarding the leadership of the Labour Party (LP). The commission’s officials confirmed that no decision has been made yet on the party’s leadership structure.
According to sources within INEC, the commission will only make a decision after thoroughly studying the Certified True Copy of the Supreme Court judgment. This cautious approach aims to ensure that any decision taken is informed and aligns with the court’s intentions.
The Supreme Court’s judgment, delivered on April 4, 2025, has sparked intense debate and differing interpretations within the Labour Party. The apex court overturned an earlier ruling by the Court of Appeal that recognized Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the party. However, the Supreme Court held that the appeal court lacked jurisdiction over internal party matters.
Following the judgment, Abure has maintained that he was not removed from office, while the LP Caretaker Committee, led by Nenadi Usman, has argued that Abure’s tenure has expired. Meanwhile, another factional leader, Lamidi Apapa, has emerged, claiming leadership of the party.
In an effort to clarify the leadership situation, a delegation led by Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, and the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, visited INEC headquarters in Abuja on April 9. During the visit, Otti submitted a Certified True Copy of the Supreme Court’s judgment to the electoral body.
The delegation’s visit aimed to provide clarity on the party’s leadership and ensure effective communication with INEC. The meeting also discussed ways to strengthen collaboration between INEC and the Labour Party, with an emphasis on upholding democratic values.
INEC National Commissioner Sam Olumekun reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to neutrality, transparency, and the rule of law in carrying out its responsibilities. He assured that the commission would take an informed decision on the Labour Party’s leadership after thorough review of the Supreme Court judgment.
As the situation unfolds, the Labour Party remains divided, with different factions vying for leadership. Abure has warned Governor Otti and Peter Obi to heed the Supreme Court judgment, insisting that he remains the authentic LP National Chairman.
The development has raised concerns about the future of the Labour Party and its ability to navigate the complex web of internal conflicts and external regulatory requirements. As INEC deliberates on the matter, stakeholders and party members await a clear resolution to the leadership crisis.
