Julius Abure no longer Labour Party chairman – INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared that Julius Abure is no longer the legitimate National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP). INEC stated that Abure and the party’s national working committee are no longer recognized as their tenures expired in June 2024.

This decision is part of a counter-affidavit submitted by INEC in response to a lawsuit from the Labour Party related to its exclusion from a refresher training for uploading party agents ahead of the upcoming Edo and Ondo governorship elections.

INEC argued that the Labour Party’s leadership, including Abure, is invalid and denied recognition of a March 2024 National Convention that re-elected Abure as chairman, claiming it violated the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act. The Commission emphasized that it only engages with parties that possess legitimate leadership.

In a written statement, INEC’s legal team led by Tanko Inuwa, SAN, noted that the Labour Party must provide evidence to support its case, as mere admissions are insufficient.

They pointed out that the party’s failure to adhere to legal protocols for its national convention means it lacks valid leadership necessary for engagement with INEC. Consequently, INEC has requested the court to dismiss the Labour Party’s suit, asserting that it is not entitled to the sought reliefs.