Abure Faction of Labour Party Suspends Governor Otti, Senators, and MPs Over Anti-Party Activities
posted 7th May 2025
Abure Faction of Labour Party Suspends Governor Otti, Senators, and MPs Over Anti-Party Activities
7 May 2025
The Abure faction of the Labour Party has suspended six prominent members, including Abia State Governor Dr Alex Otti, Senators Ireti Kingibe and Darlington Nwokocha, and MPs Victor Afam Ogene, Amobi Ogah, and Seyi Sowunmi, citing alleged anti-party activities. The indefinite suspensions take effect immediately, the faction announced on Wednesday.
In a statement released by National Secretary Umar Farouk Ibrahim, the decision follows a report submitted by a five-member Disciplinary Committee, established on 2 May 2025. Chaired by Deputy National Chairman Dr Ayo Olorunfemi, the committee investigated claims of disloyalty among the named members.
The statement read:
“On 2 May 2025, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Labour Party, under the leadership of the Abure faction, constituted a Disciplinary Committee to probe allegations of anti-party activities involving Abia State Governor Dr Alex Otti and others. The committee has completed its investigation and submitted its findings. Following thorough deliberation, the NEC, in accordance with the Party Constitution, has ratified the committee’s recommendations.”
The suspended members are:
Dr Alex Otti, Governor of Abia State
Senator Ireti Kingibe
Senator Darlington Nwokocha
Hon. Victor Afam Ogene
Hon. Amobi Ogah
Hon. Seyi Sowunmi
The Abure faction also addressed speculation regarding Nenadi Usman, clarifying that she is not a registered member but a supporter of its 2023 presidential candidate through the Obidient Support Group. “We will not dignify her with sanctions as she is not a member,” the statement noted, while accusing Usman of lacking credibility to discuss corruption. It referenced her alleged ties to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and questioned the sources of her wealth, including a radio station in Kaduna, properties across Nigeria and abroad, and companies in Cameroon.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general election, the Abure faction of the Labour Party reaffirmed its commitment to contesting as an independent entity, ruling out any mergers or coalitions. “The Labour Party will prosecute the 2027 election as a stand-alone party, and no further discussion on this matter will be entertained,” the statement concluded.
The suspensions mark a significant escalation in the Abure faction’s efforts to enforce discipline as it prepares for the upcoming electoral cycle.
