Labour Party Suspends National Treasurer Amidst Allegations of Misconduct

The Labour Party in Nigeria faced internal turmoil as its National Working Committee (NWC) announced the suspension of its National Treasurer, Oluchi Opara, for a period of six months. The suspension was declared at a press conference held at the party’s secretariat in Abuja.

Opara’s suspension came after she publicly challenged the party’s national chairman, Julius Abure, to account for an alleged N3.5 billion raised from the sale of nomination forms and fundraising activities ahead of the 2023 general election. She accused the NWC of colluding with the Edo State Government, led by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In response to Opara’s allegations, the party’s national publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, labelled her as a “mole” working with dissidents within the party. Ifoh stated that the decision to suspend her was made after she failed to attend a meeting with the NWC to address the issues raised.

According to Ifoh, the NWC set up a disciplinary committee to investigate Opara’s conduct. Despite being invited to clarify her actions, Opara did not attend the meeting, prompting the committee to recommend her suspension to the National Executive Council of the party.

Ifoh expressed regret over the situation, stating that the party’s leadership and millions of members had worked hard to build the party’s image. He emphasized the party’s commitment to reform and stated that the suspension was necessary to maintain the party’s integrity.

The Labour Party’s decision to suspend Opara highlights the challenges facing the party and raises questions about its internal governance and unity. The controversy surrounding Opara’s suspension is likely to fuel further debate within the party and among political observers.

Politics Nigeria