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Apapa Faction Reconciles, Supports Abure As Labour Party Chair
Writing by Sediq Mutari....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The leadership conflict within the Labour Party (LP), which had Julius Abure and Lamidi Apapa, the National Chairman and Deputy National Chairman (South), respectively, both claiming leadership, has come to a resolution. Both factions have agreed to reconcile and work together towards the party’s objectives, ending a year-long dispute.
The conflict originated in April 2023 following a court ruling that restrained Abure and three others from presenting themselves as national officers of the party. This legal decision caused a significant division within the party, leading to a fierce battle for control, backed by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) under Joe Ajaero’s leadership.
Despite the turmoil, including picketing at LP secretariats nationwide and calls for an inclusive convention, the situation remained tense until a controversial national convention held in Anambra three months ago. This convention, which re-elected Abure and his loyal National Working Committee members, was later invalidated by the NLC Political Commission. Consequently, a transition committee was established to engage stakeholders and organize a new convention within 90 days.
Facing mounting pressure from various fronts, including an open revolt and media campaign led by the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and continuous pressure from the NLC, Abure saw the urgent need to reconcile with Apapa’s faction.
A source at the LP national secretariat, who wished to remain anonymous, told Punch, “It is the only logical way for him to have a united front against the threat of the NLC in particular. Abure has a long history with Lamidi Apapa and Abayomi Arabambi.”
Factional spokesman Abayomi Arabambi confirmed the reconciliation. Arabambi stated that they had no issue with Abure, knowing he was influenced and misled by some leading NLC officers. He said, “We are united to stop political hawks from taking over our party. We thought the NLC was fighting for a just cause, but they only wanted to take over our party. We won’t accept that.”
Arabambi added, “Abure extended an olive branch to unite against those who intended to use the Labour Party for trouble and destabilization. We are here to fight those who aim to bring the nation down. There’s no current election to contest; the next is in 2027. Why seek to destabilize the nation now?”
Efforts to get Abure’s reaction were unsuccessful, but the National Publicity Secretary of LP, Obiora Ifoh, confirmed the reunion, stating that there was nothing wrong with Abure extending an olive branch to aggrieved party members. Ifoh said, “Labour Party is united. We do not have a division. Several people want a stake in the Labour Party due to our election success. But the Labour Party has a constitution and rules.”
Ifoh further mentioned, “Many involved in anti-party activities are realizing the laws are not on their side and are returning to the fold. Our doors are open to those seeking shelter in the Labour Party. Arabambi remains our member and has recognized Julius Abure as the national chairman. The party is more united now than ever.”
A group of Nigerians has staged a protest at the United Kingdom Parliament, calling for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The demonstrators reportedly gathered outside the parliamentary complex, expressing dissatisfaction with the leadership of the electoral body in Nigeria and demanding immediate action.
They insisted that the INEC chairman should be removed, alleging concerns over credibility and trust in the electoral process as the country prepares for the next election cycle.
The protest drew attention from passersby and security personnel, as the group maintained their position that electoral reforms and leadership changes were necessary to restore public confidence.
Sir Uyi has responded strongly to critics of his involvement in nightclub businesses, insisting that such ventures represent only a small part of his wider activities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a firm reaction to recent criticism linked to Vaniti, he stated that people are focusing too much on his nightlife businesses while ignoring other aspects of his work and achievements.
He stressed that his nightclub operations do not define his entire identity or professional portfolio, adding that he is involved in several other ventures beyond entertainment and hospitality.
According to him, the criticism reflects a narrow perception of what he does, and he believes his broader contributions are being overlooked.
Sir Uyi maintained that he remains focused on his various commitments despite public scrutiny surrounding his nightlife business interests.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The victims, which included candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) heading to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been successfully rescued.
Speaking while briefing Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi during the presentation of the freed victims, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, said the rescue operation was achieved through coordinated efforts of multiple security agencies.
He explained that five of the abducted passengers were first released, while the remaining 13 were rescued on Sunday morning without injuries.
According to him, the combined pressure from security forces, supported by the state government and the Inspector-General of Police, led to the successful outcome of the operation.
Emenari further disclosed that eight suspects are currently in custody, adding that seven of them are strongly linked to the kidnapping incident, with some victims already identifying them.
He also noted that clearance operations have begun across forest areas in the state to flush out criminal groups, in line with directives from security authorities.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, while receiving the rescued passengers, expressed concern over rising cases of kidnapping in the state but welcomed the safe return of all 18 victims.
He confirmed that among those rescued were eight candidates on their way to write examinations, and called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reschedule the affected exams for them.
The governor assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the victims and strengthening security across Benue State, while also urging residents to provide credible information to security agencies.
He further directed the state health authorities to conduct medical evaluations for all rescued persons and promised government support for those affected.
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