The Labour Party is facing renewed turmoil as former presidential candidate Peter Obi has distanced himself from a reconciliation meeting between his former running mate, Dr. Datti Baba-Ahmed, and the Julius Abure-led leadership. This leadership crisis escalated in April following a Supreme Court ruling that disqualified Abure, recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission, as the party’s national chairman.
Lamidi Apapa has further complicated matters by claiming he is the rightful leader due to his seniority in the Working Committee. Meanwhile, a faction led by Nenadi Usman, backed by Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti, remains steadfast in its loyalty to the Usman-led caretaker committee.
Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, reaffirmed loyalty to Obi and the caretaker leadership, stating, “We are not aware of that particular meeting… Wherever he goes, that’s where we are going.”
Despite reports of some Obidient loyalists attending the meeting, Tanko clarified that their participation was merely as observers. He insisted there are no divisions within their ranks and emphasized the solid relationship between Datti and Obi.
During the meeting, Datti Baba-Ahmed acknowledged Abure as the authentic National Chairman and expressed his desire to reconcile the party’s factions. He stated, “I am here as a peacemaker to reconcile divergent opinions.”
Abure welcomed Datti’s reconciliatory efforts and extended an olive branch to Obi and other aggrieved members, urging them to return and apologize if necessary.
The ongoing conflict raises significant questions about the future direction of the Labour Party as it prepares for the 2027 elections.
