Labour Party Leadership Turmoil Ends as Court Dismisses Case of Abure, Cementing Usman’s Authority
A significant milestone was reached in the Labour Party’s extended leadership dispute on Friday when the Federal High Court in Abuja formally dismissed Julius Abure’s lawsuit against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), ruling that the court lacked jurisdiction. This outcome firmly reinforces that Abure is no longer recognized as the party’s National Chairman.
Julius Abure removed as Labour Party chair
In Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1523/2025, the court’s decision mirrored the Supreme Court’s binding ruling delivered on April 4, 2025 (Appeal No. SC/CV/56/2025), which had earlier nullified all previous recognitions of Abure’s leadership within the Labour Party.
Upon hearing the decision, Interim National Chairman Senator Nenadi Usman, PhD, expressed relief and clarity, stating that the judgment “removes every lingering doubt” concerning party leadership. She emphasised this as a reaffirmation of both the rule of law and the Supreme Court’s authority, and called on members to set aside distractions and work toward rebuilding the party into the disciplined, people-centric movement that Nigerians expect.
INEC withdraws recognition of Julius Abure
INEC had filed a strongly worded counter-affidavit under oath asserting that Abure’s tenure and that of the National Executive Committee expired in June 2024, in line with the Supreme Court’s ruling. It also rejected the legitimacy of the contested March 27, 2024 “Nnewi National Convention”, stating it violated the 1999 Constitution, Electoral Act 2022, INEC guidelines, and the Labour Party’s own constitution.
Following the recent development in the Labour Party, questions regarding the transition in leadership is left unanswered. Who is to assume leadership for the LP seat?
READ MORE: Alex Otti Backs INEC’s Recognition of Nenadi Usman as Authentic LP National Chairman
Path Forward: Unity, Reconstruction, and Focus on 2027 Elections
With bye-elections on the horizon and the 2027 general elections approaching, this judgment brings much-needed legal clarity to a prolonged internal dispute that had threatened the party’s cohesion. Usman urged members to unite and prioritize reconstructing the party over factional disputes.
