Yinusa Tanko, the chief spokesperson for the Obi-Datti campaign organization, has disclosed that the national chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, dismissed the advice of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for an all-inclusive convention.
Tanko made this revelation during an interview on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily on Monday, shedding light on the ongoing crisis within the Labour Party.
According to Tanko, the current turmoil within the Labour Party could have been averted if the leadership had heeded Obi’s counsel. Tanko elaborated on the efforts made by Obi to intervene and resolve the issues plaguing the party.
Tanko stated, “His Excellency, Peter Obi, made concerted efforts in trying to intervene at any point we have this particular issue and trying to improve.”
He outlined that Obi suggested an all-inclusive approach for the national convention, aiming to engage with various stakeholders, including trade unions, young leaders, and party members, to ensure a comprehensive decision-making process.
Tanko highlighted Obi’s initiatives, including meetings with members of the National Assembly and party leadership, to offer constructive suggestions for improving the party’s situation.
However, Tanko lamented that despite Obi’s efforts, the leadership proceeded with the convention in Nnewi, Anambra State, which returned Abure as the party’s chairman, contrary to the agreed-upon all-inclusive approach.
Tanko emphasized that while Abure has the right to contest the national chairmanship position again, it is imperative to uphold transparency and inclusivity in the party’s decision-making processes.
Regarding the potential impact of the party crisis on Obi’s political future, Tanko asserted that Obi is a prominent figure with a strong brand, suggesting that his supporters would stand by him regardless of party affiliations.
The Labour Party has faced internal strife, with Abure’s re-election at the controversial convention facing opposition from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and challenges regarding the validity of his tenure.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed that it did not monitor the convention, and the party’s Board of Trustees questioned the legitimacy of Abure’s continued leadership.