The crisis rocking the Labour Party took a new turn yesterday as Kenneth Okonkwo, a chieftain of the party, declared that he is not a member of the party if Julius Abure remains its chairman. Okonkwo made this declaration on Channels Television’s programme, Sunrise Daily.
According to Okonkwo, he had previously announced his departure from the Labour Party in July 2024, but he is still a member of the party, albeit not under Abure’s leadership. This stance has added a new dimension to the crisis rocking the party, which has been embroiled in a leadership tussle between Abure and the party’s Caretaker Committee, Esther Nenadi Usman.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had invalidated Abure’s leadership, citing that the national convention that produced him as chairman violated the constitution and Electoral Act. This development has led to a power struggle within the party, with different factions vying for control.
Okonkwo’s declaration has been seen as a significant development in the crisis, as he is a prominent member of the party. His stance has also raised questions about the future of the party and its ability to resolve its internal crisis.
The Labour Party has been struggling to resolve its internal crisis, which has led to a decline in its fortunes. The party’s leadership crisis has also affected its ability to effectively participate in the country’s political process.
As the crisis within the Labour Party continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Okonkwo’s stance will impact the party’s future. Will the party be able to resolve its internal crisis and emerge stronger, or will the crisis lead to its decline.
