Labour Party Criticizes House of Reps Caucus Over Convention Postponement Request

The Labour Party (LP) has criticized its House of Representatives caucus for requesting a postponement of the party’s planned national convention, accusing them of failing to represent the people effectively.

In a statement issued on Monday, the National Publicity Secretary of the LP, Obiora Ifoh, cautioned the lawmakers to respect the party’s authority or face disciplinary measures.

The LP’s House of Representatives Caucus had called for the national convention, scheduled for the end of the month, to be postponed. They cited the need for further consultations due to the party’s ongoing leadership crisis.

However, the LP’s national leadership had already notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of the planned convention, with a change of venue from Benin City, Edo State, to Umuahia, Abia State, and a revised date of March 27.

The proposed convention has caused friction within the party, particularly with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and elected lawyers on the party’s platform. The NLC and supporters of former Presidential candidate Peter Obi have called for the removal of the LP’s National Chairman, Julius Abure, accusing him of planning the convention without stakeholder input.

In response to the caucus’s request, LP’s National Spokesman, Ifoh, criticized Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, the caucus leader, for allegedly misunderstanding the party’s constitution. He clarified that LP’s constitution differs from those of other parties, with varying tenures for different executive levels.

Ifoh urged lawmakers to refrain from public commentary on party matters and emphasized the party’s commitment to upholding its constitution and ideology. He warned that disciplinary action would be taken against members who disregard the party’s authority.

Daily Trust