BY ADEYEMI AKANJI – The allegations of financial malfeasance and corruption rocking the Labour Party (LP) leadership has taken a dramatic turn with State Chapters’ Chairmen demanding that the Party’s National Chairman, Barrister Julius Abure steps aside honourably for proper and fair investigation of all issues in contention.
According to them, with such weighty accusations against him, it is only imperative that Abure temporarily excuse himself from the office and facilitate the establishment of an independent investigative panel to thoroughly examine various allegations.
Addressing Journalists in Abuja on Saturday evening, the Forum of LP States Chairmen in the 36 States of the Federation led by the Plateau State Chairman, Comrade Solomon Ndem said recent developments within the party, particularly the alleged misappropriation of funds level against Abure by the National Treasurer as well as other sundry complaints of forgery and impersonation by many aggrieved members call for urgent measures to save the Party from ridicule and public odium.
Reading from a prepared text of briefing, Comrade Ndem said; “We finds ourselves at a critical juncture where we must address certain internal matters for the sake of our party’s integrity In the spirit of openness and accountability as elected Chairmen of Labour Party in Nigeria, we wishes to address certain concerns that have come to our attention.
“We are appealing to His Excellency, Peter G. Obi, Senator Ahmed Datti, and other distinguished personalities within the party to join us in requesting Barrister Julius Abure to step aside.
“This step is essential to facilitate the establishment of an independent investigative panel that will thoroughly examine various allegations, including the misappropriation of funds level against him by the Treasurer of our Party and indeed the complaints of forgery and impersonation by a lot of aggrieved party members.”
Insisting on transparency and openness in handling the current crisis, the Forum further said; “It is crucial that no one acts as a judge in his own case, and we believe this measure will ensure a fair and impartial inquiry.
“Furthermore, we want to draw attention to a critical matter that could impact the upcoming off-season election in Edo State. We want to remind the party and the people of Edo State about the potential repercussions if we emerge victorious and these legal complexities surrounding the leadership of the party is not been addressed.”
The Forum, also noted thus; “A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, led by Justice Hamza Muazu, on April 5th, 2023, restrained Barrister Abure from parading himself as the National Chairman of the LP. It is imperative for the party and the people of Edo State to consider this matter seriously, as the actions of one individual should not jeopardize the efforts of our candidate and the aspirations of our voters in Edo State.”
Emphasizing that the press conference was convened in good faith, the Forum said; “We remain committed to the principles of the New Nigeria project and believe that by addressing these concerns head-on, we can strengthen the Labour Party, uphold justice, and continue our journey towards a brighter future. Long live Labour Party, and long live the great people of Nigeria”.
The Forum of Chapter Chairmen, while extending warm greetings to all Labour Party faithful, urged Nigerians to remain dedicated to the New Nigeria project, adding; “Your commitment and enthusiasm for positive change are truly commendable.”
In appreciating the intervention so far by the Party Leader and Standard bearer in the February 25, 2023 presidential election, the Forum said; “We stand before you with a profound appreciation for the responsiveness of HE Peter G. Obi, a stalwart in our party, for his swift action in response to the call for the external auditing of the LP accounts.
“This gesture underscores his unwavering commitment to transparency and the principles of the New Nigeria project.”
