The Labour Party has suspended six of its key members, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti, over allegations of actions harmful to the party. The decision, made official on May 7, 2025, also affects Senators Ireti Kingibe and Darlington Nwokocha, along with House of Representatives members Victor Afam Ogene, Amobi Ogah, and Seyi Sowunmi.
The suspensions followed the findings of a disciplinary committee formed by the party’s leadership to investigate claims of anti-party behavior. The committee, set up on May 2, 2025, submitted its report to the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), which ratified the decision after thorough discussion.
A statement from the party’s National Secretary, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, said, “The Disciplinary Committee has concluded their assignment and has submitted their report to the party leadership. After careful consideration, the National Executive Committee has approved the committee’s recommendations.”
As part of the suspension, these members are now banned from participating in any Labour Party activities. The party also notified various institutions, including the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and INEC, that these individuals no longer represent the party in any capacity.
“By this suspension, these former members of the party will no longer act for or represent the party,” the statement read, making it clear that the Labour Party intends to distance itself from their actions moving forward.
The statement also clarified the situation regarding Nenadi Usman, who had been linked to the controversy. The party explained that Usman is not a member of the Labour Party, but rather a supporter of its 2023 presidential candidate. “We are aware that she is a member of the Obidient Support group that worked and is still working for the party’s 2023 presidential candidate. She is not a member of the party, and as such, she is not subject to any sanctions,” the party said.
The party also raised concerns, stating, “She should also explain how she acquired her radio station in Kaduna, her properties across Nigeria and abroad, and her businesses in Cameroon. Nenadi Usman lacks the moral authority to talk about corruption,” the statement added.
Finally, the Labour Party made it clear that it has no plans to enter into any coalition or merger with other political groups ahead of the 2027 elections. “The Labour Party intends to run in the 2027 general elections as an independent entity, and no further discussions on alliances will be entertained,” the statement concluded.
This suspension marks a significant move by the party’s leadership to assert control, especially as it looks ahead to the 2027 elections. Whether this decision will resolve internal tensions or fuel further divisions remains to be seen.
