Abure Heads to Supreme Court as Appellate Court Dismisses Leadership Suit
The Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, has delivered a unanimous judgment dismissing the appeal filed by Julius Abure challenging the leadership of the Labour Party. In a ruling by a three-member panel of justices, the court affirmed Senator Esther Nenadi Usman as the legitimate leader of the opposition party.
Court's Decision and Rationale
Justice Oyejoju Oyewumi, with Justices A. B. Mohammed and Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike concurring, upheld the earlier decision of the Federal High Court. The appellate court referenced the Supreme Court's judgment from April 4, 2025, which conclusively settled the leadership dispute by nullifying the convention that had purportedly returned Abure as National Chairman.
The court held that the Federal High Court had the authority under Section 251 of the Constitution to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission to recognize Usman as the party's leader. It also agreed that the formation of the Caretaker Committee, led by Usman, was a necessary measure to address a leadership vacuum within the party.
Allegations and Costs Imposed
The justices accused Abure of abusing the court process and engaging in forum shopping by pursuing the matter in a Nasarawa State High Court after it had been decided by the Supreme Court. They noted that Abure persisted in claiming leadership despite clear rulings from the apex court.
Consequently, the court dismissed the appeal as meritless and imposed a cost of N10 million against Abure for wasting judicial time. It also rejected his allegation of being denied a fair hearing, stating that such an issue did not arise in this case.
Reactions and Party Developments
Usman hailed the judgment as a victory for democracy, the rule of law, and judicial integrity. She emphasized that it brings clarity and stability after a prolonged internal dispute, thanking party members for their loyalty and patience. Usman urged unity as the party prepares for congresses and the national convention ahead of the 2027 elections, focusing on strengthening internal democracy and rebuilding confidence.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party has unveiled electoral subcommittees for the upcoming state congresses. According to a statement by Ken Asogwa, Senior Special Adviser (Media) to the Interim National Chairman, these committees comprise experienced members tasked with overseeing the congresses to ensure compliance with party guidelines and electoral standards.
Congress Schedule and Future Plans
The party's congress timetable includes ward congresses on April 23, local council congresses on April 24, and state congresses on April 25, 2026. Usman charged the appointees to act with fairness, transparency, and integrity, stressing that the credibility of the internal processes must not be compromised.
She reminded members of the party's core values of equal opportunity and social justice, urging them to reflect these principles throughout the congresses. The National Convention is scheduled for April 28, 2026, in Umuahia, with assurances that adequate arrangements are in place for a smooth event.
Abure, however, rejected the appellate court's judgment and vowed to approach the Supreme Court to pursue his case further, setting the stage for continued legal battles over the party's leadership.
