Despite facing opposition from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr. Julius Abure has secured re-election as the National Chairman of the Labour Party for a second term.
The decision came through a unanimous affirmation of delegates during the party’s national convention held in Nnewi, Anambra State, with Mr. Ikechukwu Emetu, the Chairman of the National Convention and Deputy Governor of Abia State, declaring him the winner.
Abure’s tenure has been marked by a contentious relationship with the NLC leadership, led by Joe Ajaero.
The NLC had previously called for Abure’s resignation and the formation of a caretaker transition committee to organize a legitimate and all-inclusive national convention for the party.
Tensions escalated on March 20 when workers, denied access to the party office, protested around the premises, demanding Abure’s removal over allegations of financial impropriety.
The leadership of rival factions within the party both disputed the NLC’s involvement, although they differed on the party’s leadership.
The Labour Party maintained that its leadership is not accountable to the congress.
Former NLC President, Ayuba Wabba, weighed in on the crisis, asserting that the Labour Party is answerable to the congress.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Wabba emphasized the party’s origins within the NLC and its purpose to provide a platform for workers, pensioners, and farmers to exercise their rights.
Wabba highlighted the party’s genesis under the leadership of Pascal Bafyau, evolving from the Party for Social Democracy to the Labour Party.
He underscored the integral role of the NLC in its formation and registration, likening it to building a house and retaining an interest in its management.
