In a new development, the Labour Party (LP) is facing serious allegations against its former national chairman, Julius Abure, as the Attorney General of the Federation has recommended his prosecution for alleged crimes, including criminal conspiracy, perjury, and forgery. Hon. Afam Ogene, the leader of the LP caucus in the House of Representatives, expressed his vindication following this recommendation, highlighting ongoing concerns about Abure’s leadership and the integrity of the party.
The recommendation, issued on March 7, 2025, directs the Nigeria Police to proceed with legal action against Abure, alongside three others: Farouk Umar Ibrahim, Nkwegu Edward Okereke, and Ojukwu Clement. This directive follows a petition from the LP’s gubernatorial candidate in Ebonyi State, Splendour Oko Eze, who alleges that Abure and his associates unlawfully substituted his name at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), employing forged documents to support their claims.
Despite the Attorney General’s clear instructions, it appears the police have been slow to act on the recommendation. A report from March 2023 indicated that some suspects had refused to respond to police summons, raising concerns about the apparent lack of accountability. In a statement, ACP Junaid Bukar expressed frustration with the situation, describing it as a “blatant disregard to law and order.”
Hon. Ogene reiterated that this development emphasizes the corruption and manipulation prevalent under Abure’s leadership, urging law enforcement to ensure that the suspects face justice. He stressed the importance of holding political leaders accountable to protect Nigeria’s democratic values and prevent future misconduct.
The Attorney General’s letter specifically noted that a thorough investigation had established a prima facie case against the accused, detailing how Abure allegedly submitted a notice of withdrawal and substitution to INEC, thereby unlawfully displacing Eze as the party’s gubernatorial candidate. Furthermore, forensic analysis indicated that the signatures on the withdrawal letter and membership card used to facilitate this act were indeed forged.
“This situation demonstrates clear evidence of the abuse of power and the undermining of legitimate democratic processes,” Hon. Ogene stated. “It is now imperative for the Inspector General of Police to act swiftly and decisively to uphold the rule of law.”
As the Labour Party grapples with these mounting allegations, the call for justice is louder than ever, with implications for political integrity and the future of leadership within the party.