The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi and members of the 29-man caretaker committee have announced plans to appeal the Federal High Court judgment affirming Julius Abure as the party’s national chairman.
The Abuja-based court ruled that the contentious national convention that returned Abure and his National Working Committee to office was constitutional and in line with the laws of Nigeria. The judgment also compelled the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to restore the legitimacy and privileges of the party leadership.
However, Obi’s faction disputes the court’s verdict, arguing that the Nnewi convention was not all-inclusive and expansive.
Senator Nenadi Usman, Chairman of the Labour Party Caretaker Committee, released a statement urging party faithful to remain calm while announcing their decision to appeal the judgment.
In a statement released on Tuesday night, she said, “This evening, I met with His Excellency Mr Peter Obi, His Excellency Governor Alex Otti, and Senator Darlington Nwokocha (Secretary, LP Caretaker Committee). We deliberated on the judgment passed today.
“The case actually preceded the formation of the Caretaker Committee. However, after being briefed, the Caretaker Committee decided to join the case. Consequently, we have resolved to appeal the judgment accordingly.
“I, therefore, call on all party members to remain calm and maintain peace as we continue our reconciliation efforts.”