May 07, (THEWILL) – The Julius Abure-led faction of the Labour Party has announced the indefinite suspension of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti; Senator Ireti Kingibe; and four other prominent members over alleged anti-party activities.
The suspension was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the faction’s National Secretary, Umar Farouk Ibrahim. Others affected include Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Victor Afam Ogene, Amobi Ogah, and Seyi Sowumi.
According to the statement, the suspended individuals are barred from participating in any Labour Party activities with immediate effect.
“Recall that on Friday, May 2, 2025, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Labour Party constituted a five-man Disciplinary Committee headed by the Deputy National Chairman, Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi, alongside Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim and three others, to investigate Governor Alex Otti and other members over allegations of anti-party conduct,” the statement read.
“The Committee has concluded its assignment and submitted its report. After an exhaustive deliberation during the NEC meeting held on May 7, 2025, the party ratified the committee’s recommendations in accordance with its constitution.”
Consequently, the party said Dr. Alex Otti, Senator Ireti Kingibe, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Hon. Victor Afam Ogene, Hon. Amobi Ogah, and Hon. Seyi Sowunmi have been suspended indefinitely and will no longer represent or act on behalf of the party in any capacity. It added that relevant institutions, including the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, National Assembly, INEC, and security agencies, have been notified.
On the omission of Nenadi Usman from the suspension list, the party clarified that she is not a registered member of the Labour Party. “She has never been a card-carrying member. Nenadi Usman is part of an Obidient support group and recently pledged allegiance to another political party alongside a former Kaduna State governor. We do not consider her worthy of any disciplinary action as she is not one of us,” the statement added.
The faction further accused Usman of lacking the moral standing to speak on issues of corruption, citing her past cases with the EFCC and a reported plea bargain. It urged her to explain how she acquired her radio station in Kaduna, her properties in Nigeria and abroad, her companies in Cameroon, and her alleged forfeitures.
Defending its financial records, the faction stated that INEC’s external auditors recently gave the party a clean bill of health and commended it for transparency. It also claimed Labour Party’s audited accounts have been published and ranked among the best in the country.
On the issue of coalition talks, the Abure-led leadership reiterated that the party is not interested in any merger or alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections. It said those pushing the idea lack the competence and capacity to manage such a complex political arrangement.
“The Labour Party will contest the 2027 elections as a standalone entity. No further discussions on this issue will be entertained,” the statement concluded.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
