The Federal High Court in Abuja has validated the Labour Party National Convention held on March 27, 2024 at Grand Seasons Hotel, Nnewi, Anambra State, that gave a second term to Julius Abure, firmly discrediting an initiative for an interim leadership backed by Peter Obi, the LP Presidential Candidate.
The intervention of Abia State’s Governor Alex Otti and Obi, who was the Presidential Candidate of the party in the 2023 election, saw the composition of a 29-man caretaker committee to lead the party in the interim.
The Committee is chaired by former Minister of Finance, Nenadi Usman.
However delivering judgement today Tuesday, Justice Emeka Nwite declared the 2024 Labour Party National Convention held in Nnewi in March valid, constitutional and in line with all laid down laws in Nigeria.
In a judgement, Justice Emeka Nwite further compelled the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to grant due recognition and all privileges to the Labour Party’s National Working Committee-led Barrister Julius Abure.
The party has been going through crisis since that convention as some stakeholders including the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, insisted that Abure’s tenure was over following a 2021 Justice A.Omotosho’s bidding agreement between the duo mentioned above and Abure with INEC as witness, urging the parties to convene a proper ward to state and national Congresses before a National Convention.
But Abure-led exco disagreed, arguing that the constitution of the party conferred powers on the National Chairman or in their absence, the National Secretary, to convene a meeting to prepare grounds for a convention.
The NLC, owners of the party, initially set up a transition committee led by former National President, Abdulwaheed Omar, to supervise the party until its officials met in Abia State in August this year and elected a 29- man Caretaker Committee of the party under the Chairmanship of former Finance Minister, Esther Nenadi Usman.
Reacting to the judgement on Tuesday, Abure said it signaled a new dawn for the Labour Party, adding that it is now time for victory, forgiveness and unity.
He said, “This victory is not just mine, but a victory for justice and democracy. It confirms that the rule of law prevails and that our party’s leadership remains legitimate. For this, I must first and foremost thank Almighty God for guiding us through this challenging period.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the judiciary, particularly Justice Emeka Nwite*, for his courage and integrity in delivering a judgment that upheld justice and resisted external pressures. His well-articulated judgement has restored our faith in the judiciary and given us hope for democracy in Nigeria.
” I must also appreciate Justice Omotosho of the Federal High Court, who had earlier validated the Labour Party’s convention held in Nnewi. His judgment became the foundation for other rulings, reflecting the strength and fairness of our judicial system. Additionally, Justice C. K. Nwankwo of the Abia High Court also deserves recognition for resisting pressure and avoiding granting a kangaroo interim and interlocutory orders against me and the party. Some individuals, whose names I choose not to mention, attempted to secure these orders, but failed. These judges have set an admirable precedent for upholding justice in the face of adversity and huge inducement
“They sought to restrain us, as National Executive members of the party, from even speaking to the press. Thankfully, the courts technically avoided granting such an order and justice prevailed.
“Now that the court has spoken, I offer my forgiveness to those who attempted to undermine our party,engaged in character assassination and blackmail especially of my person.
“However, in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ, I say, “I forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.” Forgiveness must be accompanied by repentance and restitution
“It is my sincere hope that those involved in these actions will reflect on their mistakes, come forward with a repentant heart, and reconcile themselves with the party. In doing so, they should also consider restitution for the damages they have caused us. Only then can we truly move forward, heal our party, and work for the common good of Nigeria.
“Be that as it may, I call on Peter Obi the former Presidential candidate of our party to help unite the party.
“This judgement marks the beginning of a new era for the Labour Party in Nigeria. There is no question that the party will need restructuring and healing, but I assure you that our doors are open to all. In the coming days, we will focus on rebuilding our structures, reconnecting with our grassroots, and uniting our members. We will heal old wounds and emerge stronger than ever before. With the collective efforts of all members, we will continue to fight for the interests of the common man and the betterment of Nigeria.
“I must also say clearly that I give kudos to and appreciate the judiciary for the work done so far. Their role in ensuring that justice prevails in the Labour Party leadership crisis has been invaluable.
“Finally, I would like to acknowledge and deeply appreciate the steadfastness of our members, supporters, and well-wishers who stood by the party during these trying times. Your unwavering belief in our cause has brought us to this moment, and together we will continue to work for a Labour Party that truly represents the hopes and aspirations of every Nigerian.
” In closing, let this victory be the foundation upon which we shall build a stronger Labour Party, united in purpose and driven by the desire to serve the people of Nigeria. I also want to thank the judiciary once again for standing firm in the face of challenges, thereby renewing our faith in democracy and the future of Nigeria.”
