January 21, (THEWILL) — The Federal High Court in Abuja has upheld the Senator Nenadi Esther Usman-led National Caretaker Committee as the only valid and lawful leadership of the Labour Party (LP), ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize the committee with immediate effect.
Justice Peter Lifu, delivering the judgment on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, reaffirmed that the tenure of former National Chairman Julius Abure has elapsed.
The court held that the National Caretaker Committee under Usman was lawfully constituted and remains the legitimate authority empowered to administer the party’s affairs pending a valid national convention.
The judgment followed a suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2262/2025, filed by the former Finance Minister. In the suit, both Julius Abure and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) were cited as defendants.
Dismissing Abure’s contention that the dispute was an internal party affair beyond judicial reach, Justice Lifu ruled that the constitution of the caretaker committee was a legal necessity following the expiration of the previous executive’s term.
Justice Lifu directed INEC to accord full recognition to the Usman-led leadership in all official dealings, stressing that compliance with the ruling is mandatory and immediate.
The decision was further highlighted by human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, who confirmed that the judge ordered INEC to recognize the committee “forthwith,” ending months of uncertainty over the party’s leadership structure.
The ruling is expected to bring stability to the Labour Party, which has been embroiled in internal disputes since the 2024 Nnewi convention.
To fill the leadership vacuum, a 29-member caretaker committee headed by Senator Usman was established during a stakeholders’ meeting in Umuahia, supported by key figures including Peter Obi and Governor Alex Otti.
This judgment effectively validates that transition and paves the way for a fresh national convention.
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.
