The Federal High Court in Abuja has affirmed Senator Nenadi Usman as the legitimate leader of the Labour Party, effectively removing Julius Abure as the party’s national chairman.
Justice Peter Lifu, who delivered the judgment on Wednesday, ruled that the evidence before the court showed that Abure’s tenure as national chairman had already expired.
In reaching the decision, the court relied on the April 4, 2025 judgment of the Supreme Court, which held that Abure could no longer validly occupy the position.
Justice Lifu also ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission to immediately recognise the Nenadi Usman-led Caretaker Committee as the only lawful authority empowered to represent the Labour Party, pending the conduct of a national convention.
The judgment followed a suit filed by Senator Usman challenging Abure’s continued claim to the party’s leadership. The Nigerian Labour Congress was also listed as a defendant in the case.
The court rejected Abure’s argument that the matter was an internal party issue not subject to judicial intervention. Justice Lifu held that the constitution of a caretaker committee was necessary and flowed directly from the Supreme Court’s earlier decision.
The judge stated that the action taken by the party was aimed at restoring order and legality within its leadership structure.
Earlier this month, the Labour Party’s National Working Committee announced its recognition of Senator Usman as national chairman, describing the move as a reaffirmation of the Supreme Court’s ruling.
The party said all congresses and its national convention would be conducted in strict compliance with the provisions of its constitution, urging members across the country to participate fully in the process.
The ruling is expected to shape the party’s internal realignments ahead of future electoral activities.
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