The Labour Party (LP) has announced the indefinite suspension of six high-profile members, including Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, over allegations of anti-party activities.
The announcement followed the submission of a report by a five-member Disciplinary Committee set up by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) on May 2, 2025. The committee, chaired by Deputy National Chairman, Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi, and including National Secretary, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, was tasked with investigating the conduct of several top members accused of working against party interests.
After deliberations at a NEC meeting held Tuesday, May 7, the party ratified the committee’s recommendations, suspending the following members:
Dr. Alex Otti – Governor of Abia State
Senator Ireti Kingibe
Senator Darlington Nwokocha
Hon. Victor Afam Ogene
Hon. Amobi Ogah
Hon. Seyi Sowunmi
“These individuals are hereby suspended from the party and all its activities, indefinitely and with immediate effect,” the party stated.
“They will no longer act for or on behalf of the Labour Party.”
The party directed institutions such as the Nigeria Governors Forum, the National Assembly, INEC, and security agencies to take note of the suspension.
Nenadi Usman Not a Party Member – Labour Party
The party also addressed the omission of Nenadi Usman from the suspended list, stating she is not a card-carrying member of the Labour Party but a supporter of its 2023 presidential candidate through the Obidient Movement.
It further criticized Usman’s recent political activity, noting that she had publicly joined another political party alongside a former Kaduna State governor, raising questions about her political allegiance.
In a sharp rebuke, the Labour Party accused Usman of hypocrisy for commenting on corruption, citing her previous cases with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The party called on her to explain her plea bargain, alleged property forfeitures, and the source of her assets including radio stations, foreign companies, and plantations in Cameroon.
“Ms. Usman lacks the moral capacity to commence any probe or even talk about corruption,” the party said.
Party Finances and Position on 2027 Elections
The Labour Party defended its financial transparency, revealing that its audited accounts have been published and commended by INEC’s external auditors. It described its financial records as “among the best” within the Nigerian political system.
On the topic of political coalitions, the party firmly stated it will not enter any merger or alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The Labour Party intends to prosecute the 2027 general election as a stand-alone party,” the statement concluded.
“Those pushing for coalitions lack the character, capacity, and competence to manage such arrangements.”
