Abuja, May 7, 2025 — In a dramatic move, the Labour Party has indefinitely suspended Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, alongside five other prominent members over allegations of anti-party activities. Those affected include Senator Ireti Kingibe, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Hon. Victor Afam Ogene, Hon. Amobi Ogah, and Hon. Seyi Sowunmi. The decision, announced on Tuesday, escalates internal tensions within the party as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.
The suspensions, which take immediate effect, were ratified by the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) following recommendations from a five-member Disciplinary Committee chaired by Deputy National Chairman, Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi. The committee was inaugurated on May 2 to investigate allegations of disloyalty. Invoking provisions of the party’s constitution, the NEC barred the suspended members from representing or participating in any Labour Party activities, and officially notified institutions including the Nigeria Governors Forum, the National Assembly, INEC, and relevant security agencies.
In a strongly worded statement, the National Secretary, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, addressed the decision to exclude Nenadi Usman from the list of suspended members, clarifying that she is not a registered member of the party. Usman, associated with the Obidient Support Group backing the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, recently pledged loyalty to another political party along with a former Kaduna governor. This development prompted the Labour Party to question her political allegiance. The party went further to accuse Usman of corruption, challenging her to publicly reveal the terms of an alleged EFCC plea bargain and account for her wealth, including a radio station in Kaduna, various properties in Nigeria and abroad, and business interests in Cameroon.
Reaffirming its commitment to integrity and transparency, the Labour Party highlighted that its audited financial records had been certified by INEC’s external auditors. The party emphasized that its financial management ranks among the best in Nigeria, firmly rejecting any insinuations of mismanagement.
Furthermore, the Labour Party reiterated its refusal to join any coalition or merger ahead of the 2027 elections. Dismissing those advocating for political alliances as lacking the “capacity, character, and competence” to lead, the party declared its intention to contest independently, signaling a strong resolve to maintain its autonomy.
These suspensions and the fiery tone of the party’s statements reflect deepening divisions within the Labour Party, raising concerns over its unity and strategy as Nigeria’s political terrain becomes increasingly competitive.
This is just a distraction. This may be coming from their typical enemy. Perhaps, a strategy to disintegrate the party for their own gain.
The game has started already.