Labour Party to Power Ahead with National Convention Amidst Opposition

The Labour Party (LP) has confirmed that its convention scheduled for tomorrow in Nnewi, Anambra State, will proceed as planned, despite the controversy surrounding it. Acting National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, stated that all arrangements have been made for the event, with delegates already arriving. Deputy National Chairman, Ayo Olorunfemi, also affirmed that the convention would go ahead.

The decision to hold the national convention has sparked a dispute between National Chairman Julius Abure and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which is demanding his resignation. The party had previously changed the convention venue from Benin City, Edo State, to Umuahia, Abia State, and finally to Nnewi, Anambra State. On Sunday, founding fathers of the party joined in calling for Abure's removal.

The NLC has labeled the planned convention as illegal, calling for the formation of a caretaker transition committee to organize a "legitimate convention." The House of Representatives Caucus has also called for the convention's postponement, citing lack of consultation with stakeholders, including lawmakers.

Former NLC president Ayuba Wabba criticized Abure and his team for alleged illegality, claiming that the LP has strayed from its founding ideology. He dismissed accusations against NLC President Joe Ajaero of attempting to hijack the LP, describing them as an attempt to stir up emotions. Wabba emphasized that Abure's term has ended and that a national convention cannot proceed without ward and state congresses. He further asserted that the NLC owns the LP, as decided by a court ruling.