By Ahmed Akanbi
The Labour Party has reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, constitutional order and internal party discipline, following a fresh Court of Appeal judgment affirming that only its recognised national leadership led by Senator Nenadi Usman can authorise legal actions in the name of the party.
The party stated this in a press release signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, in reaction to the July 2, 2026 judgment of the Court of Appeal, Owerri Judicial Division in Appeal No. CA/OW/104/2026: Labour Party & 14 Ors. v. Abia State Independent Electoral Commission & 4 Ors.
LP said it would continue to challenge attempts by “unauthorised persons, including Barrister Julius Abure and Mr. C. K. Igara,” to present themselves as representatives of the Labour Party or to initiate legal proceedings in its name without lawful authority.
“The party remains resolute in its commitment to the rule of law, constitutional order, internal party discipline, respect for judicial pronouncements, and the protection of its corporate identity and institutional integrity,” Asogwa stated.
The appeal arose from a pre-election matter. According to the party, the suit was filed in the name of the Labour Party without the knowledge or approval of the recognised national leadership.
Upon discovering the development, the National Legal Adviser, Mrs. Taiwo Mary Ajayi, briefed Mr. C. Okoroafor through a letter dated June 22, 2026, to represent the party and withdraw the appeal.
At the hearing, two counsel announced appearances for the Labour Party. The Court asked both to present proof of authority.
While Mrs. A. Oteh tendered a letter from Mr. C. K. Igara, who described himself as South-East Vice Chairman, Mr. Okoroafor presented a letter of authority issued by the National Legal Adviser on behalf of the Senator Nenadi Usman-led national leadership.
After reviewing the documents, the Court upheld the authority issued by the National Legal Adviser. Mrs. Oteh thereafter withdrew her appearance and the counter-affidavit filed against the withdrawal application.
The Court dismissed the appeal and awarded N100,000 cost against counsel acting on Mr. Igara’s purported authority.
The Labour Party described the judgment as a further judicial affirmation that only the duly recognised National Leadership, acting through authorised officers, can engage counsel and institute, defend or sustain legal proceedings for the party.
“The judgement in effect reaffirmed the leadership of Senator Nenadi Usman as the only authentic and valid leadership of the Party,” the statement said.