In an unexpected turn of events at the Labour Party’s national convention, key figures including Peter Obi, the party’s Presidential Candidate in the 2023 elections, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, Senator Victor Umeh, and other party bigwigs were conspicuously absent.
Their absence marked a notable backdrop as Julius Abure secured his reelection as the party’s chairman.
The convention, held in Nnewi, Anambra State, witnessed the reelection of seven other members of the National Working Committee (NWC), solidifying the party’s leadership structure. However, the reshuffle also saw 14 NWC members replaced, citing reasons such as non-performance or completion of their allowable terms according to the party’s constitution.
Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Ikechukwu Emetu, Deputy Governor of Abia State, officially declared Abure’s reelection during the proceedings. Additionally, former National Organising Secretary, Chief Clement Ojukwu is now the Deputy National Chairman, adding further depth to the party’s leadership.
The convention, originally slated for March 29 in Benin City, Edo State, underwent its second rescheduling before finally convening in Anambra. Despite the logistical challenges, the event proceeded smoothly, culminating in a joint communique signed by Abure and Umar Farouk Ibrahim, the National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.
In the communique, a stark assessment of the nation’s state emerged, emphasizing the dire security situation and worsening economic conditions. It urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to swiftly implement measures to address these pressing issues, stressing the importance of proactive steps to salvage the economy and foster growth.
Highlighting concerns over inflation, unemployment, and escalating hardship, the convention urged for policies promoting indigenous production to bolster the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and reduce reliance on foreign goods.