The Labour Party in Rivers State has suspended its Caretaker Chairman, Hilda Dokubo, over serious allegations of misconduct, including extortion and mismanagement of funds.
The suspension came after multiple complaints from her ward, Ward 3 of Asari-Toru Local Government Area (ASALGA), accusing her of inflating fees for election nomination forms, negotiating party positions inappropriately, and diverting party funds for personal use.
Dokubo, who was appointed as caretaker chairman, is also accused of undermining the party’s unity by using a “divide and rule” strategy. This has led to a breakdown in party operations in the state.
The suspension letter was signed by key members of the ward and addressed to the Labour Party’s National Chairman, calling for an investigation into her actions.
Among the specific allegations are that Dokubo inflated the costs of nomination forms for local government elections, charged candidates more than the set fees, and compromised the party’s integrity during her bid for a House of Representatives seat in 2023.
She also reportedly tried to convince other party candidates to betray the party’s interests. Despite being invited to address these concerns, Dokubo has failed to respond, leading to her indefinite suspension from all party activities.
In response, Dokubo denied the suspension, claiming that it was not valid and that certain individuals were “trying their luck.” The investigation into her actions is ongoing.
