By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The Labour Party Caucus in the House of Representatives has hailed the Supreme Court judgment that ousted Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the party, describing it as a turning point that could restore internal harmony and democratic ideals within the party.
In a statement signed by the caucus leader, Rep. Afam Victor Ogene, the lawmakers said the ruling delivered on Friday, April 4, 2025, by a five-member panel of the apex court, was a much-needed “tonic” for the revitalization of the party, which has in recent months been plagued by leadership tussles and internal wrangling.
“The judgment is not only a legal pronouncement but a wake-up call to all those who see political leadership as a personal fiefdom. Democracy is about the people, not about playing god,” Ogene said.
The Supreme Court had nullified an earlier ruling by the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which recognized Abure as the party’s national chairman, citing lack of jurisdiction.
Reacting to the development, the Labour Reps said the crisis within the party could have been averted if Abure had heeded warnings from stakeholders, especially the lawmakers, who previously cautioned against hasty decisions and exclusionary leadership.
“In March 2024, we called for the postponement of the party’s national convention to allow for wider consultations, given the fragile state of the party. But instead of listening, Abure and his group resorted to media attacks and threats, including blackmailing us with talk of denying us tickets in 2027,” Ogene revealed.
He said the Supreme Court’s verdict has now cleared the path for genuine reconciliation and reorganization within the party, noting that efforts are already underway to chart a new course.
“In fact, by next week, we expect the National Caretaker Committee led by Senator Esther Nenadi Usman to convene an all-inclusive stakeholders meeting to set the party back on the right track,” he disclosed.
Ogene lamented that the leadership crisis and internal intolerance had already cost the party six lawmakers who lost faith in the direction of the party.
“It was undemocratic and disrespectful for the party leadership to ignore our concerns. Their refusal to embrace inclusivity is the reason we found ourselves in this avoidable mess,” he said.
The caucus expressed optimism that the Supreme Court’s decision will usher in a more transparent, people-centered approach that strengthens the party ahead of future elections.