The Labour Party (LP) has publicly distanced itself from recent statements made by its vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Datti Baba-Ahmed, labeling them as undemocratic and contrary to the party's principles. Additionally, the party has expressed serious concerns over alleged threats and actions from Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, which it perceives as undermining the party's leadership and structure.
Disavowal of Datti Baba-Ahmed's Statements
Datti Baba-Ahmed's recent comments, which have been widely circulated in the media, have drawn criticism from various quarters, including Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, who described them as containing "fascistic language" and unbecoming of a democratic leader. citeturn0search10 In response, the Labour Party has officially disowned these remarks, emphasizing that they do not reflect the party's stance or values.
Allegations Against Governor Alex Otti
The Labour Party has raised alarms over actions taken by Governor Alex Otti, accusing him of attempting to destabilize the party's leadership. According to the party, Governor Otti convened an unauthorized stakeholders' meeting in Umuahia, Abia State, during which a caretaker committee was purportedly established to oversee the party's affairs. The party contends that this meeting and the resulting committee are unconstitutional and not recognized by the party's constitution.
Furthermore, the party has alleged that Governor Otti was involved in the arrest of its National Vice Chairman for the South-East, Mr. Ceekay Igara, during a meeting in Aba. The Labour Party claims that the arrest was carried out without a warrant and was orchestrated to intimidate and suppress dissent within the party.
Internal Party Crisis and Leadership Disputes
The Labour Party is currently grappling with internal disputes concerning its leadership and organizational structure. The party's National Chairman, Julius Abure, has insisted that the existing leadership remains valid, citing a national convention held in March 2024 in Nnewi, Anambra State, which he claims was conducted in accordance with the party's constitution and the Electoral Act.
In contrast, some stakeholders, including Governor Otti and former presidential candidate Peter Obi, have advocated for a restructuring of the party's leadership, leading to the appointment of a caretaker committee headed by former Finance Minister Nenadi Usman. However, the Abure-led faction has dismissed this move as illegitimate, asserting that Usman is not a registered member of the party in her ward and that the stakeholders' meeting lacked the authority to make such appointments.
Calls for Unity and Adherence to Party Constitution
Amidst the ongoing crisis, the Labour Party's leadership has called for unity and adherence to the party's constitution. The National Working Committee has emphasized that any changes to the party's leadership must follow due process and be conducted per established legal and constitutional frameworks. The party has also warned that it will take disciplinary action against members who engage in activities that undermine its integrity and cohesion.
Conclusion
The Labour Party's disavowal of Datti Baba-Ahmed's remarks and its allegations against Governor Alex Otti highlight the internal challenges facing the party as it seeks to maintain unity and uphold democratic principles. As the party navigates these turbulent times, its commitment to constitutional processes and internal democracy will be crucial in determining its future trajectory.
Post a Comment
0Comments