Removing Abure govt from INEC’s portal extraordinary, unacceptable – LP
Editor-in-chiefJanuary 31, 20262 Mins read18
Removing Abure Government from INEC’s Portal: Extraordinary, Unacceptable – LP
Introduction
The Labour Party (LP) has strongly condemned the removal of its executives’ names from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal, describing the action as both extraordinary and unacceptable. This development has sparked significant controversy within Nigeria’s political landscape, raising questions about democratic processes and party autonomy.
Key Points
- The Labour Party vows to challenge the Federal High Court judgment at the appellate court
- LP National Publicity Secretary Obiora Ifoh criticizes the monetization of democracy
- The party maintains its commitment to the 2027 general elections despite current challenges
- LP emphasizes its foundation in social democracy and opposition to godfatherism
- Questions have been raised about the due process followed in appointing the caretaker committee
Background
The controversy began when the Federal High Court in Abuja issued a judgment that led to the removal of Labour Party executives’ names from INEC’s official portal. This action has effectively disrupted the party’s recognized leadership structure and created uncertainty about its future operations. The party has maintained that this judgment will not deter its political ambitions, particularly its preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Analysis
The Labour Party’s response to this situation reveals deeper concerns about democratic processes in Nigeria. According to Obiora Ifoh, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, this incident represents a broader pattern of “strangulation and monetisation of democracy” by powerful political interests. The party’s stance suggests that this is not merely a legal dispute but a fundamental challenge to democratic principles and party autonomy.
The LP’s emphasis on social democracy and its opposition to godfatherism highlights the ideological tensions within Nigerian politics. The party argues that allowing a single individual to appoint officials from the National Working Committee down to state and ward levels represents “impunity of the highest order” and contradicts the principles of internal democracy.
Practical Advice
For political parties facing similar situations, several key lessons emerge:
1. Ensure strict adherence to constitutional provisions and electoral laws in all party operations
2. Maintain comprehensive documentation of all party decisions and processes
3. Develop strong legal teams to handle potential disputes
4. Foster transparent communication with party members and the public
5. Build coalitions with other parties and civil society organizations to protect democratic principles
FAQ
What led to the removal of LP executives from INEC’s portal?
The removal followed a Federal High Court judgment in Abuja, though the specific details of the case remain subject to ongoing legal proceedings.
How does this affect the Labour Party’s operations?
The removal has created uncertainty about the party’s recognized leadership structure and could impact its ability to participate in electoral processes.
What are the Labour Party’s next steps?
The party has vowed to challenge the judgment at the appellate court and maintain its preparations for the 2027 general elections.
What due process concerns have been raised?
The Labour Party has questioned whether proper notice was given in line with party constitution and the Electoral Act for the appointment of the caretaker committee.
Conclusion
The removal of Labour Party executives from INEC’s portal represents a significant challenge to internal party democracy in Nigeria. As the party prepares to challenge this decision at the appellate court, the case highlights broader concerns about the state of democratic processes in the country. The outcome of this dispute could have far-reaching implications for political parties’ autonomy and the overall democratic landscape in Nigeria.
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