The leadership of the Labour Party has issued a strongly worded disclaimer warning members of the public and party stakeholders to disregard any nomination forms allegedly issued by former party chairman Julius Abure, describing them as “worthless paper” and a fraudulent attempt to mislead aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The statement, released on Saturday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ken Eluma Asogwa, follows circulating images on social media showing Abure allegedly distributing nomination forms to individuals in Abia State.
Labour Party Clarifies Official Authority on Nomination Forms
According to the party, only the officially recognized leadership under National Chairman Senator Nenadi Usman is authorized to issue legitimate nomination forms for all elective positions under the Labour Party platform.
The party stressed that all authentic nomination forms for the 2027 elections can only be obtained from the Labour Party National Secretariat in Utako, Abuja.
It warned that any documents obtained outside this official structure are invalid and should be treated as fraudulent.
The statement reads in part that “any so-called Labour Party nomination form obtained from Julius Abure or any unauthorized source is nothing but worthless paper being peddled by political fraudsters.”
Allegations of Political Fraud and Impersonation
The Labour Party accused Abure of engaging in what it described as “illegal sales activities,” alleging that he has been presenting himself as a party authority despite no longer holding legitimate office within the party’s recognized structure.
The party further described the situation as a deliberate attempt to deceive unsuspecting aspirants and party members seeking nomination ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Officials said the circulation of such forms has caused confusion among supporters and prompted widespread inquiries across the country.
Abia State Incident Raises Questions
The party also questioned why the alleged distribution of the disputed nomination forms appeared to be concentrated in Abia State.
It suggested that the activities may be politically motivated and targeted at influencing internal dynamics within the state chapter of the party.
The statement further referenced Governor Alex Otti, describing him as a key figure in the party’s national structure, and insisted that he would not be subjected to intimidation or political manipulation.
Internal Crisis and Leadership Dispute
The latest development highlights ongoing tensions within the Labour Party regarding leadership control and internal legitimacy claims.
The party has experienced internal divisions in recent years, with competing factions laying claim to leadership authority and organizational control.
However, the current statement reinforces the position that Senator Nenadi Usman remains the recognized National Chairman responsible for party administration and electoral preparations.
Political analysts say the renewed public warning reflects efforts by the party leadership to assert authority ahead of a critical election cycle.
Warning to Aspirants and General Public
The Labour Party urged aspirants, supporters, and the general public to exercise caution and verify all party-related transactions through official channels.
It emphasized that individuals who engage with unauthorized sources risk financial loss and disqualification from the party’s nomination process.
The party also encouraged members to report suspicious activities to appropriate authorities to prevent further deception.
Officials described the alleged distribution of fake nomination forms as a serious threat to the integrity of the party’s internal democratic process.
Legal Consequences Highlighted
The statement also warned that impersonation of party leadership positions and unauthorized issuance of nomination forms constitute criminal offences.
It specifically accused Abure of impersonating the office of National Chairman and engaging in activities that may attract legal consequences.
The party stated that such actions have reached an “intolerable height” and will no longer be ignored.
It added that legal processes may soon be initiated to address what it described as violations of party structure and national laws.
Party Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency
Despite the controversy, the Labour Party reiterated its commitment to transparency, internal democracy, and credible candidate selection ahead of the 2027 elections.
It assured members that all official nomination processes will be conducted through proper channels in line with party constitution and electoral guidelines.
The party also urged aspirants to remain calm and avoid being misled by individuals or groups operating outside its recognized leadership framework.
Broader Implications for 2027 Elections
The dispute comes at a time when political parties across Nigeria are intensifying preparations for the next general elections.
Observers say internal conflicts such as this could affect party cohesion if not quickly resolved.
However, Labour Party officials insist that the situation will not disrupt its electoral roadmap or candidate selection process.
Official Statement Signed
The disclaimer was signed by Ken Eluma Asogwa, National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, on May 17, 2026.
As the 2027 election cycle draws closer, the party says it will continue to take steps to protect its image, enforce discipline, and safeguard aspirants from fraudulent activities.
