By Prosper Mene
The Labour Party (LP) in Anambra State has praised Senator Esther Nenadi Usman’s leadership of the party’s national caretaker committee, describing a recent Federal High Court judgment as a triumph for justice, internal democracy, and the rule of law.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, following the ruling by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, the Anambra chapter hailed the decision that ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize the Nenadi Usman-led caretaker committee as the legitimate leadership of the Labour Party.
The court, relying on the Supreme Court’s April 4, 2025, verdict, declared that Julius Abure’s tenure as national chairman had expired and affirmed Senator Usman, a former Minister of Finance, as the valid leader pending the party’s national convention. The judgment effectively set aside Abure’s claims and directed INEC to accord recognition solely to the caretaker committee.
Anambra LP Chairman, Comrade Ugochukwu Okoye, described the ruling as confirmation that the caretaker committee was both lawful and essential, stemming directly from the apex court’s earlier position on the party’s leadership crisis.
“History has shown once again that the Labour Party stands on the side of justice, and justice has prevailed,” Okoye stated. “This judgment reinforces our commitment to constitutionalism and paves the way for unity and progress within the party ahead of future elections.”
The leadership tussle in the Labour Party has been ongoing since 2024, triggered by internal disputes over tenure, party governance, and alleged anti-party activities. The crisis escalated after a stakeholders’ meeting, chaired by former presidential candidate Peter Obi and hosted by Abia State Governor Alex Otti in Umuahia, resolved to remove Abure and establish the caretaker committee.
Senator Usman, in reactions conveyed through her Special Adviser Ken Asogwa, welcomed the verdict as a broader victory for democracy, the Labour Party, and Nigerians—not a personal triumph. She urged all factions to embrace dialogue for reconciliation and peace.
The Abure-led faction has vowed to appeal the decision, arguing that the court misinterpreted the Supreme Court ruling and that the matter concerns internal party affairs.
This development is seen as potentially reshaping opposition dynamics in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections, with implications for party cohesion and alliances.
The Anambra chapter called on members and supporters to remain steadfast, assuring that the party would continue to prioritize justice, transparency, and grassroots mobilization under the recognized leadership.
