LP National Chairman Abure Refutes Allegations of Financial Impropriety
Amidst the ongoing political turmoil within the Labour Party, its embattled National Chairman, Julius Abure, has refuted accusations of mismanaging campaign funds for Peter Obi’s presidential run in the 2023 elections.
Abure emphasized that neither the party nor its officials engaged in financial transactions related to the campaign, placing responsibility for such matters in the hands of individuals such as Dr. Doyin Okupe, Akin Osuntokun, and Datti Baba-Ahmed.
The National Chairman further disclosed that Aisha Yesufu and Pastor Itua Ighodalo were the sole signatories to the presidential campaign accounts, and were responsible for the payment of polling unit agents.
Abure’s clarifications came on the heels of accusations by the Suspended National Treasurer of the party, Oluchi Opara, who alleged that Abure diverted N3.5 billion of funds related to the party’s nomination forms and campaign donations.
Despite these claims, Abure remained defiant, asserting that he and his colleagues elected in the March 27 Convention in Nnewi, Anambra State, would defend their mandate.
As the turmoil within the Labour Party continues, questions remain about the veracity of Abure’s claims and the true nature of the party’s financial dealings during the presidential campaign. While the party positions itself as a force for positive change in Nigeria, it must also reckon with the challenges of transparency and accountability that come with political power.
The Labour Party’s position as a party of the people, born from the yearnings of Nigerians for a better future, may be at risk if the allegations of mismanagement and corruption within its ranks continue to swirl.
As Abure and his colleagues defend their mandate, they must also confront the reality that public trust and support are not easily regained once lost.
The Labour Party’s journey from grassroots movement to potential political powerhouse is at a critical juncture, and the coming weeks and months will be a crucial test of its ability to weather the storm and emerge as a credible alternative to the established parties in Nigerian politics.
References and Citations:
- PUNCH – LP Crisis: Kingibe backs Otti panel, Aisha Yesufu attacks Abure
- Thisdaylive – LP Crisis: Peter Obi, Otti write INEC for validation of recent stakeholders
- The Nation – Abure: Yesufu, Igholo, others ran Obi campaign funds