In a bid to mend the strained relationship between some Labour Party (LP) lawmakers and the National Chairman, Julius Abure, the LP leadership has taken a significant step by forming a special committee. This move was disclosed by the LP National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, in a statement released in Abuja. The newly inaugurated three-member panel comprises legislators Ben Etanabene as the Chairman, along with Mathew Nworgu and Chinedu Obika.
The discord between Abure and several LP National Assembly members has been escalating since the controversial Anambra convention last year, which reinstated the current leadership. The tension was further exacerbated by the ongoing rift between Abure and the faction supporting LP’s presidential candidate in the upcoming 2023 election, Peter Obi, who is backed by Abia State Governor Alex Otti.
### The Committee’s Mission and Abure’s Call for Unity
During the committee’s inauguration, Abure emphasized the importance of unity within the party and urged the lawmakers to address their grievances constructively to enhance communication. He stressed the significance of aligning all LP members in the National Assembly, comprising around 40 representatives, with the party’s leadership. Abure acknowledged the lawmakers as ambassadors of the party in the legislative chambers, commending their dedication and values displayed thus far. However, he highlighted existing gaps that require immediate attention, underscoring the urgency of the committee’s task.
“We have invited and entrusted you with this all-important assignment of bringing together all our members in the National Assembly, both in the Senate and House of Representatives, to resolve all issues that may have existed,” Abure stated. “We expect that within two weeks from today, you will have concluded it and reported it back to the leadership. We assure you that the party will do all it can to ensure an enduring truce, particularly with key stakeholders such as the NASS caucus.”
### Lawmakers’ Commitment to Party Unity
In response to Abure’s plea, the three lawmakers selected for the committee expressed their unwavering loyalty to the LP and their eagerness to undertake the task diligently. They reassured the party’s leadership of their sincerity in approaching the assignment with the seriousness it deserves, demonstrating their commitment to fostering unity and resolving internal conflicts.
As the LP endeavors to reconcile internal divisions and strengthen its cohesion, the formation of this committee marks a pivotal moment in the party’s journey towards unity and effective governance. The success of this initiative hinges on the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved, embodying the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect essential for a thriving political organization.