The Labour Party, under the leadership of Julius Abure, has indefinitely suspended six top-ranking members, including its only elected governor, Alex Otti of Abia State. The suspension was announced on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, in Abuja, via a statement by the faction’s National Secretary, Umar Farouk.
According to the statement, the suspended members were found guilty of engaging in anti-party activities after being investigated by a disciplinary committee set up by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) on May 2. The committee, led by Deputy National Chairman Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi, submitted its findings, which were subsequently ratified by the party’s executive.
Those suspended are:
- Dr. Alex Otti – Governor of Abia State
- Senator Ireti Kingibe
- Senator Darlington Nwokocha
- Hon. Victor Afam Ogene
- Hon. Amobi Ogah
- Hon. Seyi Sowunmi
The Labour Party instructed all relevant bodies — including the Nigeria Governors Forum, National Assembly, INEC, and security agencies — to recognize and act upon the suspensions, which bar the individuals from representing the party in any capacity.
The party also clarified that Nenadi Usman, despite her public support for the 2023 presidential candidate, is not a registered member of the party and was thus not subject to any disciplinary action. The party accused her of lacking the moral authority to comment on corruption, citing alleged unexplained wealth and overseas business holdings.
On its political direction, the Labour Party reiterated its decision to remain independent and will not entertain talks of coalition or merger ahead of the 2027 general elections. It dismissed the ongoing coalition discussions as being led by individuals who lack the capacity to manage even a single political party.
