In a landmark ruling, the Court of Appeal has reaffirmed Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party, putting to rest months of internal leadership disputes. The judgment, delivered by Justice Hamma Barka, declared that the appellate court’s earlier ruling of November 13, 2024, which recognized Abure as the legitimate chairman, remains valid and unchallenged by any court.
The decision comes as a significant boost to Abure’s leadership, especially at a time when the Labour Party has been navigating internal conflicts and external political pressures. Justice Barka emphasized that the Federal High Court’s ruling of October 8, 2024, which had attempted to challenge Abure’s position, lacked jurisdiction and was, therefore, null and void.
“The appellate court has no jurisdiction over matters of party leadership, as such issues are non-justiciable. Anything done outside jurisdiction amounts to a nullity,” Justice Barka stated while striking out the case brought by Senator Esther Nenadi Usman, the caretaker committee, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The ruling solidifies Abure’s grip on the Labour Party’s leadership, ensuring stability as the party positions itself for upcoming political challenges. Party loyalists have celebrated the judgment as a victory for democracy and the rule of law. “This is a vindication of our leader and a rejection of attempts to destabilize the party,” a senior Labour Party official remarked.
Legal experts have lauded the judgment, emphasizing its clarity on jurisdictional boundaries in political party matters. According to them, the ruling serves as a reminder that courts cannot interfere in issues that fall outside their constitutional mandate.
Supporters of Julius Abure have taken to social media to express their joy, hailing the decision as a turning point for the Labour Party. “The judgment strengthens the Labour Party’s resolve to remain a formidable force in Nigeria’s political landscape,” one supporter tweeted.
This latest ruling is expected to end months of uncertainty surrounding the Labour Party’s leadership, allowing Abure and his team to focus on strengthening the party’s structure and preparing for future elections. With the legal hurdles cleared, all eyes are now on how Abure will leverage this victory to unite the party and navigate the political terrain ahead.
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