The internal crisis within the Labour Party (LP) deepened on Wednesday as the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) announced the suspension of Abia State Governor Alex Otti and five National Assembly members over alleged anti-party activities.

The announcement was made in a statement by Umar Farouk Ibrahim, National Secretary of the Julius Abure-led faction of the party. The suspended lawmakers include:

  • Senator Ireti Kingibe
  • Senator Darlington Nwokocha
  • Hon. Victor Afam Ogene
  • Hon. Amobi Ogah
  • Hon. Seyi Sowunmi

The suspensions are said to be indefinite and take effect immediately.

According to Ibrahim, the party’s NEC ratified the suspensions following recommendations submitted by a five-member Disciplinary Committee, which was constituted on May 2 and chaired by Deputy National Chairman Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi.

“The National Executive met today, May 7th, 2025, and after exhaustive deliberation in line with powers granted by the Party Constitution, ratified the recommendation,” the statement said.

The suspended members are barred from acting on behalf of the Labour Party in any capacity, with relevant institutions including the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the National Assembly, INEC, and security agencies formally notified.

Response to Nenadi Usman

The statement also addressed the omission of Nenadi Usman, chairperson of a caretaker committee set up by the Peter Obi-led faction, clarifying that she is not a registered member of the Labour Party.

“Nenadi Usman was and is not a card-carrying member of the Labour Party,” the statement read. “She belongs to the Obidient Support Group and recently pledged loyalty to another party.”

It went on to issue a scathing rebuke of Usman, accusing her of lacking moral authority and referencing her past legal troubles with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), including allegations of illicit property acquisitions and a plea bargain.

Rejection of Coalition Plans

In the same statement, the Labour Party firmly rejected any suggestion of forming a coalition or merger ahead of the 2027 elections.

“The party intends to prosecute the 2027 general election as a stand-alone party. No further discussion will be entertained on this matter,” it emphasized.

The leadership criticized proponents of such coalitions, questioning their capacity and credibility to lead a unified political front.