Senator Nenadi Usman, Chairman of the Labour Party (LP) Caretaker Committee, announced on Tuesday that the committee would appeal the recent Federal High Court ruling in Abuja, which upheld the leadership of Julius Abure. Usman, in a statement, noted that she had met with key party figures, including the 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, and Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Secretary of the Caretaker Committee, to discuss the judgment.
While acknowledging that the court’s decision, which validated the Nnewi Convention of the party, preceded the formation of the Caretaker Committee, Usman stated that the party’s leadership had agreed to challenge the ruling. She emphasized that the judgment did not reflect the direction in which they believe the party should move forward.
Senator Usman urged all party members to remain calm and assured them that efforts were being made to address the situation through legal channels. She also highlighted the importance of maintaining unity within the party as they pursue reconciliation and continue with the appeal process.
The leadership dispute within the Labour Party has generated significant interest, with both sides claiming legitimacy. The planned appeal reflects the ongoing contest for control, as Usman and her committee seek to assert their leadership in the face of legal challenges.
“This evening, I met with His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi, His Excellency Governor Alex Otti, and Senator Darlington Nwokocha (Secretary, LP Caretaker Committee). We deliberated on the judgment passed today.”
“The case actually preceded the formation of the Caretaker Committee. However, after being briefed, the Caretaker Committee decided to join the case. Consequently, we have resolved to appeal the judgment accordingly.”
