The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally withdrawn recognition of Mr. Julius Abure as National Chairman of the Labour Party, citing the Supreme Court judgment of April 4, 2025, which ruled that his tenure expired in June 2024.
The decision, contained in a counter-affidavit filed before the Federal High Court in Abuja, also nullified the controversial convention held by the Abure-led faction in Nnewi, Anambra State, in March 2024.
INEC maintained that the exercise was neither monitored nor recognised, describing it as a violation of the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and the party’s guidelines.
The electoral umpire’s stance effectively ends the prolonged leadership tussle within the party, paving the way for the faction led by Acting National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, who enjoys the backing of the party’s 2023 Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi.
In her reaction, Senator Usman welcomed the decision and extended an olive branch to aggrieved members, urging them to join hands in rebuilding the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Also speaking, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, hailed INEC’s action as long overdue, describing it as a step towards restoring peace and unity within the Labour Party.
He called on Mr. Abure to respect the judgment and work with the progressives for the growth of the party.
Former National Treasurer, Mrs. Opara, also applauded the development, stressing that INEC’s affidavit has finally removed doubts about the leadership question.
The move has been widely welcomed by party leaders and stakeholders, with many describing it as a victory for internal democracy and the rule of law.