Ambassador Dr. Osita Offor “De Ultimate Commander” (Ikenga Gburugburu of Ohafia Ancient Kingdom), has congratulated Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Chioma Otti OFR, the National leader of Labour Party (LP), and Senator Nenadi Usman, the Party Chairman, following the landmark judgment of the Court of Appeal affirming the leadership of the Labour Party Nigeria.
Reacting to the ruling, Ambassador Offor described the judgment as a “resounding victory for democracy, the rule of law, and good governance in Nigeria.”
The Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, in a unanimous decision delivered by a three-member panel led by Justice Oyejoju Oyewumi, dismissed the appeal filed by Julius Abure, affirming an earlier ruling of the Federal High Court which recognized Senator Nenadi Usman as the legitimate leader of the party.
The appellate court held that the leadership dispute had already been conclusively settled by the Supreme Court, which nullified the convention that produced Abure. It further upheld that the Federal High Court acted within its constitutional powers in directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise Usman.
The court also validated the establishment of the Labour Party’s caretaker committee under Usman, describing it as a necessary step to fill a leadership vacuum within the party.
In a strong rebuke, the court criticized Abure for abuse of court process and forum shopping, particularly his actions at a Nasarawa State High Court on matters already determined by the Supreme Court. The appeal was consequently dismissed as lacking merit, with a cost of ₦10 million awarded against him.
Ambassador Offor, in his reaction, commended the judiciary for its courage and steadfastness in upholding justice, noting that the judgment reinforces public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
He further praised Senator Usman for her resilience and leadership during the turbulent period, while also acknowledging Governor Otti’s role in promoting good governance and stability within the party’s strongholds.
According to Offor, “This victory is not just for the Labour Party but for all Nigerians who believe in justice, accountability, and the supremacy of the rule of law.”
He called on party faithful and stakeholders to unite and focus on strengthening the party ahead of future political engagements, particularly the 2027 general elections.
The judgment marks a significant turning point in the internal crisis that has rocked the Labour Party, setting the stage for a more stable and unified leadership moving forward.
