From Sola Ojo, Abuja
The Labour Party (LP) has been plunged into a deeper leadership crisis as support groups and stakeholders rejected the leadership of Barr. Julius Abure, and instead, welcomed the appointment of Sen. Nenadi Usman as the Chairman of the party’s national Caretaker Committee.
The development has sparked a leadership showdown, with Barr. Abure’s leadership being rejected by the support groups and stakeholders, who have pledged their unwavering support for Sen. Usman’s chairmanship.
Leader of all support groups, Eze Morrison Onyenmaechi Ikpeamaeze, and Dr. Danjuma Sale, for the Obidient Movement in Kaduna State, in a joint statement on Wednesday, congratulated Sen. Nenadi Usman on her well-deserved appointment, citing her vast political experience, hard work, commitment, and integrity to lead the party at the moment.
To these groups, the move is a bold step to reposition the party ahead of future elections, with Sen. Usman expected to utilize her skills and experience to organize all-inclusive and expansive congresses at all levels.
The groups praised Sen. Usman’s instrumental role in galvanizing support for Peter Obi during the 2023 general elections, particularly in Kaduna State, where she made significant contributions to the party’s success.
The statement also expressed gratitude to Peter Obi, the party’s presidential candidate, and Dr. Alex Otti, the executive governor of Abia State, for their roles in rescuing the party and appointing competent hands like Sen. Usman to lead the repositioning process.
“We, the Kaduna State Labour Party support groups, the esteemed Great Obidient movement, and other Stakeholders wish to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dist. Sen. Nenadi Usman on her well-deserved appointment as the chairman of the Labour Party national caretaker committee.
“This appointment comes following the conclusion of the tenure of the Barr. Julius Abure led the National Working Committee (NWC).
“We call upon all members of the support groups, the Obidient movement, members and party leaders to unite in supporting the national caretaker committee under the capable leadership of Sen. Nenadi Usman”, they said.
Political analysts believed that, the fresh leadership crisis in LP, sparked by the rejection of Barr. Julius Abure’s leadership by the bigwigs in the party, including Mr. Peter Obi, Gov Otti, and lawmakers elected under the party, and the welcoming of Sen. Nenadi Usman’s chairmanship, has significant implications for the party’s future.
First, the crisis may lead to a split within the party, with factions emerging around the two leaders. This could weaken the party’s overall strength and cohesion, making it more challenging to present a united front against opposing parties.
Second, the crisis may delay or hinder the party’s repositioning efforts, which are crucial for future electoral success. With a divided leadership, the party may struggle to develop a unified strategy or make key decisions.
Third, the crisis may impact the party’s relationship with its supporters and stakeholders. If the crisis is not resolved promptly and transparently, it may lead to a loss of trust and confidence in the party’s leadership.
However, the crisis also presents an opportunity for the party to renew itself and emerge stronger. Sen. Usman’s leadership may bring fresh perspectives and ideas, and the support groups’ enthusiasm for her chairmanship could inject new energy into the party.
Ultimately, the Labour Party must navigate this crisis carefully to minimize damage and maximize opportunities for growth and success, especially as its presidential candidate for the 2023 presidential election, Mr. Peter Obi, gathers momentum ahead of another round of election in 2027.
