Abuja — The protracted leadership crisis rocking the Labour Party (LP) since 2023 has effectively come to an end following a landmark ruling of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which affirmed Dr Nenadi Usman as Chairman of the party’s National Caretaker Committee.
Reacting to the judgement, Usman described the ruling as “a victory for democracy” and a critical turning point for the party’s future, praising the judiciary for once again asserting its constitutional role in Nigeria’s democratic development.
Speaking exclusively to TVC News, Usman expressed satisfaction with the outcome and commended her legal team for what she called a diligent and principled defence of the rule of law.
“I was happy with the ruling. I appreciate my team of lawyers and the judiciary for a job well done. The judiciary has again demonstrated its importance in sustaining and strengthening democracy in Nigeria,” she said.
She stressed that democracy can only thrive where the judiciary remains independent, courageous and functional, adding that the court’s decision has now cleared the path for reconciliation and rebuilding within the party.
According to her, the judgement definitively closes the chapter on the leadership dispute that had paralysed the party’s activities for over a year.
“This ruling has put an end to the crisis of leadership we have faced since 2023. The task before us now is to bring everyone together, make peace and move forward,” Usman stated.
Looking ahead, she disclosed that the party would immediately focus on internal democratic processes, including the organisation of congresses at the local government, state and national levels, culminating in a national convention aimed at repositioning the Labour Party.
On the wave of defections that trailed the leadership crisis — including the exit of the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi — Usman said those who left did so with the party’s understanding and goodwill.
“Peter Obi and others who have moved have our blessing. We understand their decisions. For over a year, the party was trapped in endless legal battles,” she said.
She maintained that the Labour Party is an institution, not a personal platform, and would continue to reorganise itself into a strong and competitive political force.
Usman revealed that she has not held discussions with Obi regarding a possible return to the party ahead of the 2027 elections but wished him well in his political journey.
“I have not spoken to Peter Obi about returning to the Labour Party to contest in 2027, but I wish him well,” she added.
She also disclosed that due to the leadership dispute, her faction had been operating from a location separate from the party’s national headquarters, expressing confidence that the court’s clear and unambiguous judgement would now allow her team to assume full control and reposition the party.
“With the judgement delivered today, I am confident that we can now take over fully and reposition the Labour Party for the future,” Usman concluded.
The ruling is widely seen as a decisive moment for the Labour Party, offering an opportunity to heal internal divisions and reassert itself ahead of future electoral contests.
