The Julius Abure-led faction of the Labour Party pressed ahead with its nationwide ward congresses on Tuesday, excluding only Abia State due to a court injunction obtained by Governor Alex Otti’s rival camp.

National Publicity Secretary Obiora Ifoh described the exercise as a success, citing “impressive turnout and smooth conduct” across most states. He credited supervision teams for positive feedback and emphasized that the congresses were designed to democratize leadership structures in line with electoral laws and the party’s constitution. Local government congresses are scheduled for Thursday, while state-level gatherings will take place on December 6 at party headquarters nationwide.

The decision to proceed came despite an Abia State High Court order (Suit No. HIN/47/2025) barring Abure’s National Working Committee from conducting congresses in the state, pending resolution of a suit filed by Otti’s faction on November 26. Ifoh confirmed compliance with the injunction in Abia but vowed to resume activities once the legal team lifts the restriction. He dismissed claims of a nationwide halt as “fake news,” warning that such misinformation falls under Section 59 of the Criminal Code Act.

Tensions have escalated since the November 28 National Executive Committee meeting, which was observed by INEC officials and resolved to overhaul party structures. Ifoh accused “fifth columnists” of sowing discord, noting that while some have repented, others continue to undermine the party. The dispute follows Otti’s faction securing the injunction amid fears of exclusion from the process.

The crisis adds to Labour Party woes, including rival claims over the national chairmanship and the submission of a fresh 34-man leadership list to INEC by the Nenadi Usman-led interim committee, potentially overriding earlier submissions. As factions trade accusations, observers note that the infighting could weaken the party’s opposition stance ahead of the next general elections.