In a major decision, the Labour Party (LP) has announced the indefinite suspension of some of its top members, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti and Senator Ireti Kingibe. Others affected are Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Victor Afam Ogene, Amobi Ogah, and Seyi Sowunmi.
This action was taken after a disciplinary panel found them guilty of going against the party’s interests.
Earlier on May 2, 2025, the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) formed a five-member Disciplinary Committee. This committee was led by Deputy National Chairman Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi, along with National Secretary Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim and three others. They were tasked with investigating reports of anti-party behavior.
After wrapping up their investigation, the committee submitted their report to the party leadership. On May 7, 2025, the Labour Party’s National Executive met and carefully reviewed the findings. After thorough discussions, they agreed with the committee’s recommendations.
A public statement from Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim confirmed that the following members were suspended immediately:
- Dr. Alex Otti
- Senator Ireti Kingibe
- Senator Darlington Nwokocha
- Hon. Victor Afam Ogene
- Hon. Amobi Ogah
- Hon. Seyi Sowunmi
These individuals are no longer allowed to act or speak on behalf of the party. The party also alerted key institutions like INEC, the Nigeria Governors Forum, the National Assembly, and security agencies about the decision.
There were also questions about why Nenadi Usman’s name was not on the list. The Labour Party clarified that Usman is not and has never been a card-carrying member of the party. They said she is part of the Obidient support group but not an official member.
The LP further accused Nenadi Usman of corruption, saying she lacks the moral right to talk about accountability. They challenged her to publicly explain her plea deal with the EFCC and the source of her many properties in Nigeria, Cameroon, and abroad.
The party defended its own financial records, stating that its accounts have been audited and verified by INEC’s external auditors, who gave them a clean report. According to the LP, their financial transparency is among the best compared to other Nigerian political parties.
Lastly, the Labour Party firmly rejected the idea of joining any coalition or political merger ahead of the 2027 general election. The party stated it will run independently and believes those pushing for a coalition lack the ability to successfully lead such an effort.
