…As the law gradually closes in on former LP chairman
The Labour Party (LP) has disowned nomination forms allegedly being distributed by former party chairman Julius Abure, describing them as invalid and warning members, supporters and aspirants against patronizing unauthorized individuals claiming to represent the party.
The party said it had received several enquiries from stakeholders across the country following the circulation of photographs on social media showing Abure presenting what he described as nomination forms to some individuals in Abia State. According to the party, the development had sparked confusion and concern among members ahead of preparations for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement signed by Ken Eluma Asogwa, National Publicity Secretary of the party, the Labour Party said it initially chose not to react but was compelled to issue a clarification following growing public concern.
“Ordinarily, the party had resolved to ignore the embarrassing spectacle, knowing fully well that dignifying such comic desperation with a response would only amplify the absurdity. However, in view of the widespread concern and requests for clarification from members of the public, this statement has become necessary,” it stated.
The party maintained that Senator Nenadi Usman remains the legitimate National Chairman of the Labour Party and insisted that only nomination forms issued through the party’s official National Secretariat in Utako, Abuja, should be regarded as authentic.
“Let it be stated clearly and unequivocally that Senator Nenadi Usman is the National Chairman of the Labour Party, and all legitimate nomination forms for every elective position ahead of the 2027 general elections can only be obtained through the official National Secretariat of the party located in Utako, Abuja,” the statement read.
The party further warned aspirants and members of the public against obtaining forms from Abure or any other unauthorized source.
“Consequently, any so-called Labour Party nomination form obtained from Julius Abure or any other unauthorized source is nothing but worthless paper being peddled by political fraudsters seeking to deceive unsuspecting persons,” the statement added.
It also advised Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid “falling prey to the antics of desperate political scam artists masquerading as party officials.”
The statement questioned why Abure’s alleged political activities appeared concentrated in Abia State and suggested that any attempt to pressure Alex Otti would fail.
“Curiously, one also wonders why Abure’s illegal ‘sales’ activities appear concentrated in Abia State alone. If he imagines that Governor Alex Otti, the national leader of the party, will bow to cheap blackmail, intimidation or street-corner political theatrics, then he is grossly mistaken,” the statement said.
The Labour Party also accused Abure of unlawfully presenting himself as National Chairman and warned of possible legal consequences.
“Finally, Julius Abure’s continued impersonation of the office of the National Chairman of the Labour Party remains a criminal offence of serious legal consequence that has reached an intolerable height,” it said.
“As a lawyer, he should know better. The net is steadily tightening around him and, sooner than later, he will be left to answer for his actions before law enforcement authorities and the courts.”
