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| Alex Oti, Labour Party and Ireti kingibe |
The Labour Party (LP) has plunged deeper into crisis after suspending Abia State Governor Alex Otti, Senator Ireti Kingibe, and four other lawmakers over alleged anti-party activities.
The decision, announced on Wednesday, marks a significant escalation in the party’s internal conflicts.
In a statement issued by Umar Farouk Ibrahim, National Secretary of the Julius Abure-led faction, the party listed the suspended members as: Senator Ireti Kingibe, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Hon. Victor Afam Ogene, Hon. Amobi Ogah, Hon. Seyi Sowunmi.
The suspensions follow an investigation by a five-member Disciplinary Committee set up by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) on May 2.
The committee, headed by Deputy National Chairman Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi, submitted its findings, leading to the immediate suspension of the affected members. The party directed key institutions, including the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the National Assembly, INEC, and security agencies, to take note of the decision.
The statement clarified that Nenadi Usman, appointed as caretaker committee chair by the Peter Obi-led faction, was omitted from the suspension list because she is not a registered LP member. The party dismissed her claims of corruption within the LP, citing her own legal troubles with the EFCC and questioning her loyalty after she allegedly joined another political party.
Amid speculation of potential mergers, the LP reaffirmed its stance against any coalition, stating that it would contest the 2027 elections independently. The party criticized proponents of the merger, questioning their credibility to manage such an alliance.
With their indefinite suspension, Otti, Kingibe, and the other lawmakers face an uncertain political future. Analysts suggest this move could deepen divisions within the party, potentially leading to mass defections or legal battles.