The chairmen of the Labour Party from all 36 states have collectively dismissed allegations of corruption against their National Chairman, Julius Abure, asserting firmly that “No money was missing.” This declaration comes amidst swirling accusations and internal discord within the party, particularly concerning the management of funds raised during the recent electoral season.
The controversy reached a boiling point last week when Oluchi Oparah, the party’s National Treasurer and now suspended from her role, publicly challenged Abure to account for approximately N3.5 billion. This sum was purportedly amassed from nomination form sales and fundraising activities leading up to the 2023 general elections. Oparah’s allegations didn’t stop there; she also accused Abure of failing to account for donations received from the Nigerian diaspora during presidential candidate Peter Obi’s campaign tour in the United States.
However, Abure, appearing on Arise News, vehemently denied these accusations, brandishing documents and cheque copies he claimed were signed by Oparah herself. He suggested that these allegations were part of a calculated attempt to tarnish his reputation.
In a recent gathering at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, the Labour Party Council of State Chairmen, led by Ceekay Igara, expressed their dismay over how internal disputes had escalated, potentially destabilizing the party’s foundation. Igara refuted claims that the council had lost confidence in Abure, emphasizing instead their unanimous support for a forensic audit of the party’s finances—a move also advocated by Peter Obi. This audit, they believe, will vindicate Abure and clarify the party’s financial situation.
Addressing the financial controversy head-on, Igara clarified that the party had not amassed the N3.5 billion as alleged by the suspended treasurer. According to him, the party’s earnings during the 2023 general election were substantially less, totaling around N1.3 billion, in addition to N700 million in donations. These funds, he explained, were transparently managed by the Presidential Campaign Council, with all transactions properly documented and banked.
Igara also pointed out that, based on the audit report from an external auditor, the financial management of the party, especially concerning the contentious funds, had been above board. He highlighted that most financial transactions were executed with cheques signed by both Oparah and Abure, suggesting that the allegations might stem from external influences or misinformation.
The state chairmen’s stance and the impending independent audit not only aim to restore faith in the party’s leadership but also to safeguard the integrity of the Labour Party amidst politically charged accusations. As the audit proceeds, the Labour Party leaders remain optimistic that the truth will prevail, shedding light on the facts and dispelling the shadows cast by these allegations. This episode underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and unity within political organizations, especially as they navigate the challenging waters of Nigerian politics.
