The Labour Party (LP) has been mired in a protracted leadership dispute pitting Abure and his supporters against the caretaker committee headed by Nenadi Usman.

The Usman committee is backed by Peter Obi, the party’s ex-presidential candidate, and Alex Otti, Abia governor.

Last month, the supreme court that the court of appeal lacked the jurisdiction to pronounce Abure chairman of the LP.

Since the verdict, various interpretations of the apex court’s pronouncement have been made, with all factions claiming victory.

Lamidi Apapa to the chairmanship of the party.

In April, the Abure-led faction suspended Afam Ogene, the leader of the LP caucus in the house of representatives, over alleged “dereliction of duty”, and appointed Ben Etanabene as his replacement.

On Wednesday, the Abure faction also indefinitely Otti, Ireti Kingibe, senator representing the federal capital territory (FCT); Darlington Nwokocha, Ogene, Amobi Ogah, and Seyi Sowunmi, from the party.

On Thursday, Kayode Egbetokun, the inspector-general of police (IGP), to arrest Abure over alleged impersonation.

‘FAKE SUSPENSION’

In a statement issued on Thursday, the LP lawmakers said the suspension of members is “laughable” and a desperate attempt by Abure to cling to power.

The legislators claimed that instead of working to improve the party’s fortunes, Abure is focused on orchestrating its disintegration.

“It’s utterly absurd that Abure, who failed to demonstrate moral integrity during his tenure as national chairman, now claims the authority to sanction party leaders,” the statement reads.

“Only in Abure’s distorted reality can those with questionable character judge others. In the real world, his Supreme Court-nullified leadership status has reduced him to a self-serving, shameless impostor driven by personal gain.

“A political party is set up for the specific goal of participating in the democratic process, especially the contestation for power.

“Since the Peter Obi effect of 2023, what has Abure and his gang of undertakers done to enhance the party’s fortunes?

“In fact, we challenge him and his cohorts to name one single individual of note that they have attracted to the party since 2023.

“From Kogi to Bayelsa, Ondo to Edo, what Abure has done is lead the Party to disastrous outcomes.

“Pained of being kicked out of his lucrative position as national chairman, on account of abuse of official malfeasance, Abure and his gang of jesters have resorted to desperate antics in a bid to stay relevant.

“Which self-respecting national chairman of a political party busies himself running around media houses like a press boy?

“The last time around, it was announcing the sack and replacement of Hon. Ogene as caucus leader, but when that didn’t work, he has resorted to contriving a fake suspension order.”

The statement was signed by Ogene, Sowunmi, and Ogah.