by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
The camp of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has disassociated itself from a recent reconciliation meeting between his former running mate, Dr. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, and the party’s embattled national chairman, Julius Abure.
The Labour Party has been entangled in a prolonged leadership crisis, which intensified earlier this year when multiple factions emerged, each claiming legitimate control. The dispute escalated following a Supreme Court ruling that disqualified Julius Abure, despite his continued recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the party’s chairman.
Lamidi Apapa, citing seniority within the party’s National Working Committee, also laid claim to the chairmanship, while a separate faction led by Senator Nenadi Usman—backed by Peter Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti—has positioned itself as the legitimate caretaker leadership.
Obi Camp Reacts
Reacting to Datti’s appearance at the meeting with Abure, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, told The PUNCH on Monday that the group remains aligned with Obi and the Nenadi Usman-led faction.
“We are not aware of that meeting. As Obidients, we stand firmly with His Excellency Peter Obi. Wherever he goes, we go,” Tanko said.
“Everyone knows that Obi is with Governor Otti and Senator Usman. That’s our position.”
When informed that notable Obidient member Hajia Nana Kazauri attended the meeting, Tanko clarified she did so only as an observer.
“She remains a committed Obidient. There is no division in our camp. Datti and Obi also have a strong working relationship—no cracks at all,” he added.
Asked if Obi was aware of Datti’s meeting with Abure, Tanko responded,
“We’re not aware, but anyone acting in good faith to help resolve the crisis is free to do so.”
Datti Recognises Abure, Calls for Reconciliation
During the meeting held by the Abure-led National Executive Committee in Abuja, Dr. Baba-Ahmed publicly acknowledged Julius Abure as the Labour Party’s national chairman.
“The Labour Party is not one to abandon. It has made historic gains. I’m here to help reconcile differing views,” he stated.
Reflecting on the 2023 elections, he noted, “We presented evidence of 10 million votes, later reduced to 6.1 million. The fight against state capture has sown discord within our ranks.”
Datti described his role as a neutral peacemaker, clarifying he remains committed to the party despite attending coalition meetings:
“I attended discussions on possible coalitions, but I remain in the Labour Party. Any alliance must reflect our values.”
He also affirmed Peter Obi’s continued allegiance to the party:
“From his recent comments, Obi remains firmly in the Labour Party. My goal is to unite all camps and move forward.”
Abure Responds, Calls for Unity
In his remarks, Julius Abure welcomed Datti’s outreach and called on aggrieved factions to return to the fold.
“The Supreme Court reaffirmed the party’s authority to resolve internal leadership matters. The executive elected in Nnewi in 2024 remains legitimate,” he said.
Abure urged reconciliation but insisted on recognition of the party’s official structures:
“Our doors are open. If aggrieved members return and apologise, we’re ready to forgive. There are no victors or vanquished.”
On Meeting with Wike
Abure also addressed speculation surrounding his recent meeting with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, which sparked political curiosity.
“It was a private meeting. I’m a Nigerian and a resident of the FCT. I have the right to interact with government officials,” he clarified.
Reaffirming his loyalty to the Labour Party, Abure said:
“I have paid my dues. Under my leadership, this party has grown to become one of the biggest in Nigeria. I will never compromise its integrity or ideology.”