Labour Party at a Crossroads: Peter Obi Mediation Efforts Between Party and NLC
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has stepped in to address the ongoing dispute between the leadership of the party and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
Yunusa Tanko, the Chief Spokesman of the Obi-Datti Presidential Campaign Organisation, disclosed this on Friday.
Ejes Gist News recalls that tensions within the party intensified on Wednesday when NLC protesters converged on the LP national headquarters in Abuja, calling for the resignation of the party’s National Chairman, Julius Abure.
The protesters accused Abure of ‘financial impropriety’ and showing disrespect towards the NLC National President, Joe Ajaero.
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In an interview with Sunday Punch, Tanko revealed that Peter Obi had engaged in discussions with members of the House of Representatives and party leaders in an effort to mediate the conflict.
He explained that the former Governor of Anambra State traveled to Asaba, the capital of Delta State, to consult with the National Working Committee (NWC) and other party leaders.
According to Tanko, Obi encouraged the party leadership to postpone the controversial national convention to allow time for comprehensive and inclusive consultations among all concerned parties.
“Indeed, he has intervened. By doing so, he convened meetings with National Assembly members, notably those from the House of Representatives, and even the party’s leadership. His journey to Asaba was to engage with the NWC and party leaders.
The results of these discussions have not been made public. However, knowing Obi’s principled stance, he invariably promotes the correct course of action.
It’s crucial for us to unify through broad consultation. Thus, he has recommended the party consider this approach, and I believe they are taking it into account. It’s my understanding that Obi met with each individual involved. It’s important to note that representatives from the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) are also members of the National Working Committee. They were present as well.
Furthermore, representatives from the NLC Political Commission will be briefed on these discussions by His Excellency (Obi). We are optimistic that a resolution will be reached promptly. For now, His Excellency has suggested postponing the convention to ensure thorough and inclusive dialogue,” Tanko stated.
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Additionally, Obiora Ifoh, the National Publicity Secretary of LP, confirmed that Obi had held private meetings with all relevant factions within the week in an effort to find a compromise.
“I don’t speak on his (Obi’s) behalf; I represent the party. But it’s known that he has engaged privately with all pertinent groups this week, aiming to reconcile differences. That’s the current situation.
The NLC does not possess legal authority to influence appointments within the Labour Party. The laws are clear on this matter,” Ifoh remarked.
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