The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has upheld Julius Abure as the Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), setting aside the decision of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court which had restrained Abure and two others from acting as national officers of the party.
In a judgement delivered by Justice Hamma Barka on Wednesday, the Appellate Court ruled that the high court had erred in assuming jurisdiction over the matter. The Court of Appeal also awarded a cost of One million Naira in favour of Abure and against the respondent, Lamidi Apapa.
The legal dispute arose following the 2023 presidential election, in which LP’s candidate, Peter Obi, came third. Abure had been embroiled in a prolonged legal battle with Apapa, who contested the party’s chairmanship.
The conflict escalated on March 21, 2024, when Abure was arrested in Benin City, the Edo State capital, with viral videos showing him being manhandled by policemen while LP supporters tried to prevent his arrest. The police stated that Abure was arrested for attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms, and related offences. He was later released on bail the following day after protests by LP members.
The decision of the Court of Appeal brings an end to the legal uncertainty surrounding the leadership of the Labour Party. Abure’s reinstatement as chairman is expected to bring stability to the party as it prepares for future political engagements.
Politics Nigeria