By: Manoah Kikekon
LASGOS – A major crisis is brewing within the Lagos State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) as stakeholders in Ojo Local Government Area have publicly rejected the State Working Committee's decision to appoint the local secretary as the acting chairman, labeling the move "procedurally unfair" and a violation of natural justice.
The rejection was made public in a strongly-worded statement dated October 31, 2025, and signed by Akogun-Abudu Akinlola Olumayowa, the Ojo LP Chairmanship Candidate for 2025.
The statement was issued on behalf of ward chairmen, stakeholders, and members of the party in Ojo LGA, following a prolonged silence from the state leadership on a petition against the now-suspended chairman, Mr. Nifemi Elegbede.
The conflict stems from a petition submitted by Ojo party members against the former LGA Chairman, Comrade Oluwanifemi Elegbede. After what the stakeholders describe as "over two months of waiting," the State Working Committee finally responded.
While they acknowledged the petition and set up a disciplinary committee to investigate the allegations, their interim solution has ignited fresh controversy. The state committee confirmed that Elegbede has "stepped aside" but appointed the LGA Secretary, Comrade Blessing Ovie Okafor, as the Acting Chairman.
In their response, the Ojo Labour Party stakeholders expressed deep concern over this appointment. They argue that appointing the secretary who they identify as "the sole known supporter and associate of the embattled chairman" to oversee the period of investigation is fundamentally flawed.
The statement invokes the legal maxim nemo judex in causa sua, meaning "no one should be a judge in his own cause," suggesting the appointment creates a clear conflict of interest and compromises the integrity of the ongoing investigative process.
The group emphasized that the Ojo LP structure is not lacking in qualified alternatives, pointing to Vice Chairmen and other senior stakeholders who could have been considered for the interim role. They insist their position is driven by a desire to uphold the party's core values of fairness and democratic discipline. "We believe that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done if we are to sustain the trust and confidence of our members and supporters," the statement read.
Consequently, the Ojo Labour Party stakeholders are formally calling on the Lagos State Working Committee to immediately review and reverse the appointment of Comrade Blessing Ovie Okafor. They urge the state leadership to ensure the disciplinary committee's investigation is conducted in an "open, impartial, and credible manner."
Despite the internal dispute, the stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to the Labour Party, urging members to remain calm and law-abiding as they seek a resolution through the party's constitution and due process.