The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Labour Party, under the leadership of Julius Abure, has accused Governor Alex Otti of Abia State of engaging in anti-party activities aimed at destabilizing the party before defecting ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement signed by Abure and the party’s National Secretary, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, during a NEC meeting held at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, the leadership condemned Otti’s recent actions and warned of disciplinary measures.
NEC alleged that Governor Otti, in collaboration with the party’s former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, formed an unauthorized Caretaker Committee during a stakeholders’ meeting in Umuahia on September 4, 2024.
According to the NEC, this move contravened the Labour Party Constitution, particularly Article 14 (4)(B), which vests the authority to convene such meetings solely in the National Secretary with the approval of the National Chairman.
“NEC in session condemned in strong terms the activities of the Caretaker Committee illegally established by Alex Otti and Peter Obi. We reaffirm that the leadership of the party resides with the duly elected National Working Committee (NWC),” the statement read.
The Council further accused Otti of holding unauthorized meetings, using another political party for local government elections in Abia, and attempting to factionalize the party.
“The NEC is fully aware of the Governor’s plot to cripple our party before defecting to another party to contest the 2027 governorship election. These actions are unbecoming of a public official of his stature,” Abure said.
The Council reaffirmed its confidence in the Julius Abure-led NWC, citing the March 27, 2024, Nnewi National Convention as its legitimate mandate.
In response to ongoing tensions, NEC stated that any member violating the party’s constitution—regardless of position—would face appropriate sanctions as outlined in Article 19.
The party also expressed satisfaction with the recent Supreme Court judgment affirming the autonomy and supremacy of political parties in managing their internal affairs.
NEC urged all members to remain law-abiding and loyal to the party’s constitution while reiterating its commitment to unity, integrity, and electoral success in 2027.
