Labour Party Leadership Dispute Resolved: Federal High Court Validates Nnewi Convention

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In a decisive ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja has affirmed the validity of the Labour Party's national convention held in Nnewi on March 27th, 2024. This decision potentially brings an end to the leadership dispute within the party.


Presiding over the case, Justice J.K. Omotosho confirmed that the convention complied with the requirements of the 2022 Electoral Act and the Labour Party's constitution. The judgment, delivered on July 18th, 2024, in case number FHC/ABJ/CS/397/2024, involved plaintiff Mr. Lawrence Erewele against the Labour Party, Abure, INEC, and others.


Justice Omotosho ruled that the planning and execution of the convention were internal matters of the Labour Party, beyond the court's jurisdiction. He emphasized that the party adhered to sections 82(1), 82(3), and 82(5) of the Electoral Act, 2022, and relevant articles of the Labour Party's constitution, making the convention's resolutions binding on all party members.


The court dismissed claims of insufficient notice to INEC, labeling the plaintiff as an interloper with baseless accusations. Justice Omotosho clarified that the 21-day notice requirement was met, starting from the date of the first notice, not the last.


"The intent of the 21-day notice is to allow INEC ample time to monitor and report on the convention," noted Justice Omotosho. He further stated that attending the convention is at INEC's discretion, even if the notice period is disputed.


The court rejected allegations that Abure and a few executives unilaterally organized the convention. Evidence showed that the National Working Committee (NWC) and the National Executive Committee (NEC) were involved in the planning.


Justice Omotosho criticized the plaintiff for making unsubstantiated claims and speculations without credible evidence. He suggested that any grievances should be addressed through the party's internal dispute resolution mechanisms.


In conclusion, the court declared the case non-justiciable, reinforcing that it is an internal party matter. The suit was dismissed due to the plaintiff's lack of standing and insufficient merit.



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