The Labour Party (LP) is experiencing a major leadership crisis, with Lamidi Apapa returning to the forefront and claiming leadership following a recent Supreme Court ruling. This development intensifies the ongoing conflict between the Julius Abure-led National Working Committee and the Nenadi Usman Caretaker Committee, which has the backing of Governor Alex Otti and 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi.
Apapa, who had been absent from political activities for nearly a year, announced his leadership claim after the Supreme Court set aside a previous decision that recognized Abure as the party’s chairman. He asserts that the court’s ruling positions him as the rightful leader due to his status as the most senior National Deputy Chairman.
In a statement, Apapa declared that actions taken by Abure since April 4, 2023, are invalid. He also scheduled a meeting for his National Working Committee on April 14, 2025, to discuss strategic plans, including zoning arrangements for party positions.
Supporters of Otti and Obi celebrated the receipt of the official Certified True Copy of the Supreme Court judgment, which they believe clarifies the leadership structure of the party. Otti emphasized the importance of adhering to the court’s decision and urged party members to respect democratic principles.
During a gathering, Otti and Obi presented the court document, reinforcing their commitment to legal processes. They planned to visit the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to submit the judgment and commence the transition of leadership within the party.
In response, Abure’s faction dismissed Apapa’s claims, arguing that the Supreme Court ruling does not require Abure to step down. They accused the caretaker committee of misinterpreting the judgment and cautioned against further fragmentation within the party.
The National Publicity Secretary of LP, Obiora Ifoh, criticized the caretaker committee’s actions, stating that the Supreme Court did not declare a leadership vacuum within the party.
As tensions escalate, the internal conflict within the LP raises significant concerns about the party’s future and its capacity to maintain unity amid competing factions.
