The crisis rocking the Labour Party (LP) took a fresh turn Wednesday after suspected vandals attempted to break into the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
The incident, which occurred late Tuesday night, was foiled by a swift response from the Nigerian Police. Several suspects were arrested and are now assisting with investigations.
Usman-Led Faction Commends Police
In a statement issued Wednesday, the Labour Party faction led by Senator Nenadi Usman praised security agencies for their intervention.
Ken Asogwa, Senior Special Adviser to the National Chairman, said:
“The Labour Party wishes to thank the Nigerian Police for their swift response in flushing out the vandals and miscreants who attempted to break into the Labour Party National Secretariat last night.”
He confirmed that the arrested suspects are currently providing information that may lead to the identification of their sponsors.
Accusations Fly: ‘Elements of Former Leadership’
The statement did not hold back, directing strong language at individuals it accused of being behind the attack:
“The Labour Party also wishes to warn certain members, particularly elements of the former leadership who allegedly attempted to desecrate the Secretariat under the cover of darkness, that the Party will no longer tolerate acts of brigandage from within its ranks.”
It described Nigeria as “a nation governed by laws, not a banana republic” and warned “rogue elements” bent on creating “unnecessary hysteria” to desist.
The Leadership Dispute at a Glance
At the heart of the ongoing crisis is a legal battle over the legitimate leadership of the Labour Party.
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The Nenadi Usman-led faction insists it is the lawfully recognised leadership, citing a court judgment it claims has been implemented by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
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The Julius Abure-led faction maintains it remains the authentic leadership of the party, disputing the validity of the judgment and INEC’s implementation.
INEC’s formal recognition of Usman as National Chairman and Senator Darlington Nwokocha as National Secretary is a key flashpoint in the dispute.
Call for Further Investigation
Beyond the secretariat attack, the Usman-led faction also urged law enforcement to go after individuals it described as “charlatans” using the party’s name to defraud the public:
“These charlatans, who purport to operate under the banner of the Party without proper authority, are hereby warned that the Party will no longer tolerate such criminality from any member, regardless of how highly placed.”
What Happens Next?
With suspects in police custody and both factions digging in, the Labour Party faces one of its most severe internal crises since its strong performance in the 2023 general elections.
The coming days may reveal whether this incident escalates tensions — or forces stakeholders toward a resolution.
A failed break-in. Arrested suspects. Accusations traded in public statements.
The Labour Party’s leadership tussle has moved from the courtroom to the streets — and now, to the doors of the national secretariat itself.
