The Labour Party (LP) Caucus in the House of Representatives has strongly criticized the appointment of a new caucus leader by former national chairman Julius Abure. They described the move as laughable, naive, and misleading.

Abure’s National Executive Committee announced the removal of Hon. Afam Ogene from his position as caucus leader due to alleged anti-party activities, appointing Hon. Ben Etanabene as his replacement. However, LP lawmakers contend that the caucus leader should be elected by the members based on their confidence in his leadership abilities, rather than appointed unilaterally.

Ogene responded to inquiries about the Supreme Court ruling that purportedly ousted Abure, emphasizing that he was elected by his peers in a competitive election, where he received 21 out of 31 votes cast.

The caucus condemned Abure’s tactics, asserting that the majority position of LP members remains supportive of the Supreme Court’s ruling, which declared that Abure’s tenure had expired. They criticized his leadership style, linking it to financial misconduct and integrity compromises within the party.