The Labour Party (LP) is experiencing a significant shift in its ongoing leadership crisis, as former Deputy National Chairman Callistus Okafor has announced his claim to the role of National Chairman.
During a press briefing held in Abuja on Friday, Okafor asserted that his move to “take over” the party is backed by a 2018 federal high court consent judgment that he believes has been overlooked.
He highlighted a previous conflict within the party’s leadership, involving the late Abdulkadir Salam and a rival faction led by Salisu Mohammed, who also claimed the title of caretaker chair.
In the consent judgment delivered by Judge Gabriel Kolawole, it was determined that both factions’ national conventions were classified as “inclusive.”
Okafor argued that the failure to adhere to this ruling allowed Julius Abure to ascend to the national chairmanship based on a flawed framework.
He stated that he, along with other members of the former National Working Committee, are beneficiaries of this 2018 ruling. “The rightful owner has reclaimed the house. I am not challenging the Labour Party’s leadership versus the NLC,” he clarified.
Okafor elaborated on the importance of the process, asserting, “The 2014 convention is the correct platform to facilitate this transition. Hence, I am now the acting chairman of the Labour Party.”
Following this announcement, Okafor indicated that members of the 2014 National Working Committee, who are also beneficiaries of the consent ruling, have agreed to organize a comprehensive and inclusive convention in line with Judge Kolawole’s judgment.
They aim to engage in meaningful reconciliation with all discontented members and factions within six months, aspiring to foster a unified Labour Party capable of redefining political leadership in Nigeria.
He characterized his intervention as a crucial resolution to the protracted legal conflict over the Labour Party’s future.
In response, the LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, dismissed Okafor’s claims. He asserted, “We need not look far to identify those intent on damaging our party as part of their plans for 2027.”
Ifoh reaffirmed that Julius Abure remains the rightful National Chairman, supported by numerous court rulings, and stressed that the party will not be swayed by those seeking to create distractions.
