The caretaker leadership of the Labour Party, headed by Senator Nenadi Usman, has established a disciplinary panel to investigate the National Chairman of the party, Julius Abure, over allegations of corruption and document forgery.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Usman disclosed that the disciplinary body is being chaired by Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory, with Labour Party stalwart Peter Ameh serving as secretary.
She stated that the panel was set up following concerns about Abure’s conduct after the April 4, 2025, Supreme Court ruling, and that he has been given 48 hours to cease identifying himself as the party’s national chairman.
Usman emphasized, “After thoroughly assessing the Supreme Court verdict, the NEC finds Julius Abure’s ongoing claims to the office of National Chairman troubling. His actions have compelled us to establish an investigative panel to assess their impact on the party’s image and recommend disciplinary measures if necessary.”
She noted that Abure would receive formal notice of disciplinary proceedings at his last known address and urged him to focus on responding to the serious allegations of corruption, forgery, and criminal conspiracy instead of dragging the party’s reputation further into controversy.
In addition, the caretaker committee dismissed recent moves by Abure’s faction to sanction Abia State Governor Alex Otti, declaring such actions invalid due to the expiration of their mandate.
“It is essential to clarify that Julius Abure and his lapsed National Working Committee have neither the legal nor moral right to initiate disciplinary measures against Governor Otti or any other party member,” Usman said.
She also issued an apology on behalf of the party’s leadership to Peter Obi and Governor Otti over derogatory remarks made by Abure, whom she described as suspended.
Last week, The PUNCH had reported that the Abure-led NEC accused Governor Otti and others of anti-party activities and had established a separate disciplinary committee to deliberate on their cases.
Abure accused Otti of repeatedly attacking the Labour Party’s leadership in the media, which he said constituted anti-party behavior.
He noted that the disciplinary committee, chaired by Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi and supported by members including Alhaji Umar Farouk (Secretary), Kehinde Edun, Mrs. Dudu Manuga, and Callistus Ihejiagwa, was given two weeks to submit its findings.
Despite the internal crisis, Abure’s NEC reiterated its commitment to resolving disputes and appealed for unity among all party members.