Labour Party Faction Alleges Marginalization in Abia State Appointments Under Governor Alex Otti

Tensions within the Labour Party (LP) have deepened as a faction loyal to National Chairman Julius Abure has accused Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, of sidelining foundational party members in the formation of his administration.

Prince Ndubueze, Chairman of the Abia chapter aligned with Abure, made the claims during a media briefing on Wednesday. He alleged that core Labour Party supporters who were instrumental in securing Otti’s victory in the 2023 gubernatorial election have been excluded from key appointments, while a political support group known as Abia Arise, closely linked to the governor, now dominates state affairs.

Ndubueze criticized what he described as a growing disconnect between the elected leadership and the party’s base. “Everything about the Abia State government is structured around Abia Arise,” he said. “Despite the Labour Party’s crucial role in the 2023 elections, not a single commissioner in the state cabinet was appointed from within the party’s original structure.”

The faction also expressed concern over the activities of former LP presidential candidate, Peter Obi, accusing him of operating in isolation from the party. Ndubueze pointed to Obi’s recent philanthropic visits to Northern Nigeria, claiming they were undertaken without consulting the party leadership and do little to foster unity among members.

“Peter Obi’s efforts are noble, but they lack coordination with the Labour Party leadership. His recent outreach campaigns are being carried out without any input from the party, and that only worsens internal divisions,” he stated.

On the issue of the Supreme Court ruling that many interpreted as affirming the removal of Julius Abure as national chairman, Ndubueze maintained that the judgment did not invalidate Abure’s leadership. According to him, the ruling has been misrepresented by opposing factions within the party.

The statements reflect ongoing internal discord in the Labour Party, particularly as it attempts to solidify its position following its impressive showing in the 2023 general elections. The divide between the political machinery of elected LP officials and the original party structure continues to raise questions about the party’s cohesion and long-term strategy.

As calls for inclusivity and party unity grow louder, observers are watching closely to see how the Labour Party navigates these internal disputes ahead of future elections.