By Asuquo Cletus
The Labour Party (LP) in Cross River State has initiated a broad-based reconciliation and stakeholder engagement process in the aftermath of the landmark Supreme Court judgment that resolved the party’s long-standing national leadership dispute.
The ruling, delivered on 4 April 2025, brought an end to the internal crisis that had deeply fractured the LP by nullifying the earlier recognition of Julius Abure as National Chairman by the Court of Appeal.
Hailing the judgment as a victory for democracy and constitutional order, the Cross River State chapter of the LP praised the five-member Supreme Court panel for upholding the rule of law and restoring internal party cohesion.
In response, the state chapter reaffirmed its loyalty to the acting national leadership under Senator Nenadi Usman and reiterated its resolve to rebuild the party’s structures from the grassroots, anchoring its vision on democratic ideals and inclusivity.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Amawu Cletus, the State Publicity Secretary of the LP Interim Committee in Cross River, disclosed that consultations with stakeholders across the state have commenced in earnest. These engagements, he noted, will culminate in the announcement of a timetable for congresses at the polling unit, ward, and chapter levels—pending broader consultations by the national body.
“The Supreme Court’s judgment is a resounding victory for democracy, the rule of law, and party constitutionalism. The impunity and abuse of process championed by Barr. Julius Abure and his group have been roundly rejected. ‘Roma locuta, causa finita est’—Rome has spoken, and the matter is settled. However, the contemptuous response by Obiora Ifoh on Abure’s behalf post-judgment is not only laughable but a dangerous precedent that reflects the desperation of certain political actors to defy both logic and legality. As far as we are concerned, it is finished!” Amawu stated.
He affirmed that the Cross River LP stands squarely with the Acting National Chairperson, Senator Nenadi E. Usman, PhD, who described the judgment as one of “no victor, no vanquished” and called on members to unite with a renewed sense of purpose and shared vision for the party.
Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Acting National Secretary, also weighed in, stating: “This historic ruling is not only a victory for the Labour Party but also for the Nigerian people and our democracy. It affirms that the rule of law will always be upheld. We now have an opportunity to rebuild Nigeria’s democracy and strengthen our Party, which remains the political party of choice for millions of Nigerians.”
According to the Cross River LP, the judgment represents a new dawn for the party and for democratic norms in Nigeria. “We view this ruling as the beginning of a new era—not only for the Labour Party but also for the supremacy of democratic principles over tyranny, conspiracy, and greed,” the statement read. “This is a time for sober reflection, a time to take stock and build lasting structures. We call on well-meaning democrats and patriots to join us in celebrating justice and the triumph of the rule of law over impunity.”
The party further reiterated its foundational values of integrity, justice, and people-centred governance, pledging allegiance to the national leadership led by Senator Usman and solidarity with Nigerians committed to accountable and transparent leadership.
“The decision of the Apex Court further affirms the judiciary’s resolve to uphold justice. While the judgment may have been passed, the voices of the people and the Labour Party faithful grow even louder and stronger,” Amawu said.
“This ruling marks a new dawn—not just for the Labour Party, but for democratic integrity in Nigeria. It is a time for sober reflection and for party members to come together and build lasting, people-driven political structures.”
Amawu concluded with a clear sense of direction for the party’s next steps: “We are determined to unify the party and strengthen our grassroots presence. Our mission is clear: to mobilise our people, reaffirm our values, and prepare for the tasks ahead.”
In the coming days, the Cross River Labour Party is expected to hold a media briefing to outline its roadmap for congresses and reaffirm its unwavering commitment to transparency, unity, and internal democracy.
