Crisis in Labour Party: Why Alex Otti and Top Lawmakers Got Suspended Over Anti-Party Allegations
The political landscape of Nigeria is once again shaken as the Labour Party suspends Alex Otti,
its only serving governor, along with several top lawmakers.
This dramatic move stems from accusations of anti-party behavior and is already fueling intense debate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
For many observers, this signals deeper troubles within the fast-rising party, which captured national attention during the 2023 elections.
Now, with key figures on the chopping block, questions about internal unity, leadership, and the party’s future have taken center stage.
What Happened? Inside the Suspension Saga
In a decisive move that’s sending shockwaves through Nigerian politics, the Julius Abure-led faction of the Labour Party (LP) has indefinitely suspended six prominent members.
At the center of this storm is Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, the party’s only governor,
who now faces accusations of working against party interests. Alongside him are:
Senator Ireti Kingibe
Senator Darlington Nwokocha
Hon. Victor Afam Ogene
Hon. Amobi Ogah
Hon. Seyi Sowunmi
The announcement came on May 7, 2025, after the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) adopted a report by its disciplinary committee.
According to the NEC, these members were found guilty of “anti-party activities.”
The Accusations: What Did They Do?
While specific details remain vague, insiders suggest that the suspended officials allegedly engaged in actions that:
Undermined the party leadership
Participated in meetings not sanctioned by the party
Publicly criticized internal decisions
Created divisions within the party
In short, they were accused of weakening party unity at a time when the Labour Party was trying to establish itself as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.
Party’s Position: We Must Protect Our Integrity
National Secretary of the Labour Party, Umar Farouk, released a statement saying:
“The Labour Party will not tolerate behavior that threatens our collective progress.
These individuals have acted in ways that harm the party’s unity and credibility.
Their suspension is necessary to maintain discipline.”
The disciplinary committee, led by Deputy National Chairman Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi,
had reportedly been reviewing the matter since May 2 before forwarding their recommendation to the NEC for approval.
How the Suspended Members Reacted
Unsurprisingly, the suspended leaders are not taking this lightly.
Governor Alex Otti, speaking from Abia State, expressed shock.
He called the suspension “political, not procedural,” and hinted at legal actions if the party does not reverse its decision.
He stated:
“I have remained loyal to the party’s ideals and mandate.
This suspension is a surprise and seems to be driven more by politics than facts.”
Meanwhile, Senator Ireti Kingibe and Senator Darlington Nwokocha accused the Abure-led faction of running a dictatorship.
According to them, no fair hearing was given, and the process was purely a power play aimed at silencing internal critics.
Background: A Party Struggling With Factional Wars
This isn’t the first time the Labour Party has been embroiled in leadership controversy.
Since the 2023 general elections, the party has struggled to maintain internal peace.
After a controversial Supreme Court ruling in April 2025, which questioned Julius Abure’s continued leadership,
several party stakeholders including Governor Otti demanded a neutral caretaker committee.
Instead of peace, that demand deepened the rift.
What followed was a wave of internal disputes, parallel meetings, conflicting press statements, and now, these suspensions.
The Bigger Picture: What This Means for 2027 Elections
The decision to suspend Alex Otti and others could have wide-reaching effects.
Firstly, Abia State is the Labour Party’s strongest pillar of governance.
Suspending its governor might alienate supporters in the Southeast region.
Secondly, the timing is crucial. With preparations underway for the 2027 elections, the party risks dividing its base at a time when unity should be the goal.
Thirdly, this power struggle might damage the public image the Labour Party has worked hard to build one of transparency, youth-led leadership, and people-focused governance.
Labour Party’s Position on Coalition Rumors
Adding to the drama, the NEC also used the meeting to dismiss rumors of any upcoming coalitions or mergers with other parties.
According to the Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, the focus is on internal restructuring and not alliances.
“We want to grow a strong and independent Labour Party. There’s no plan for coalitions or political marriages ahead of 2027,” he declared.
Voices Calling for Peace and Dialogue
Despite the tension, some voices within the party and civil society are calling for reconciliation.
Political analyst Dr. Chinedu Okeke noted:
“The suspension of major players like Alex Otti could lead to deeper fractures.
If the Labour Party wants to survive 2027 as a serious contender, it must resolve its internal problems amicably.”
Others believe that the party should hold a national convention to address grievances and elect a credible leadership team that all factions can trust.
Interestingly, Peter Obi, the party’s former presidential candidate, has remained silent.
However, sources suggest he is quietly working behind the scenes to broker peace.
What Voters Are Saying
The public response has been mixed.
Some Nigerians believe the suspensions were long overdue, arguing that party discipline must be enforced.
Others see it as a case of power-hungry leaders flexing muscles ahead of the next political cycle.
Online platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and local blogs are buzzing with opinions.
While some youth groups are backing Governor Otti, others are questioning the wisdom of making the crisis public.
Final Thoughts: A Party at a Crossroads
There’s no doubt the Labour Party is at a turning point.
The decision to suspend Alex Otti and other lawmakers might either strengthen the party’s commitment to discipline or deepen the cracks already forming at its foundation.
With just under two years to the next general elections, how the party handles this crisis could define its future.
Will they unite and rebuild? Or will they crumble under internal battles?
Time will tell.
What’s your take on the Labour Party’s suspension of Governor Alex Otti and others?
Do you think it was justified, or is it a political power play? Share your thoughts in the comments, and
stay updated with NIGPOST for more political news and updates.
By:
NIGPOST Editorial Team
Date:
May 7, 2025
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