The Abia State High Court has once more halted local government congresses. These events were scheduled by the Julius Abure-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the Labour Party. They were part of preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The Nenadi Usman-led leadership issued a statement regarding this development. Ife Salako, the interim National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, released it. The statement confirmed the Abia State High Court’s interim order. This order was granted on November 26, 2025. It relates to Suit No: HIN/47/2025, from the court sitting in Isiala Ngwa.

Hon. Emmanuel Nwaeze Otti obtained this significant order. It specifically restrains Barrister Julius Abure and what the statement described as his “illegal National Working Committee.” They are now stopped from proceeding with their “purported and unlawful ward, local government, and state congresses.”

Court Order Details Emerge

The public statement from the Nenadi Usman-led faction read: “All Labour Party supporters nationwide are hereby notified. An interim order was granted on November 26, 2025. This came from the Abia State High Court sitting in Isiala Ngwa, in Suit No: HIN/47/2025.”

It further clarified: “Hon. (Sir) Emmanuel Nwaeze Otti sought this order. It prevents Barrister Julius Abure and his illegal National Working Committee. They cannot proceed with their planned ward, local government, and state congresses.”

Faction Urges Disregard and Compliance

The Labour Party leadership, under Nenadi Usman, urged its members across the country to disregard these congresses. They emphasized that Julius Abure and his associates are promoting these activities. “A competent court has already declared these illegal exercises null and void,” the statement read. “As a law-abiding political party, we ask all our members to respect this court directive.”

The party also indicated that legitimate Labour Party congresses would commence soon. Members will be duly informed once the final details are concluded.

Appeal to Authorities

Furthermore, the party called on the Inspector-General of Police (IGP). The IGP is listed as the 6th Defendant/Respondent in the suit. They urged him to act decisively on the court order.

It also urged the IGP to arrest and prosecute participants. This includes anyone organizing purported Labour Party congresses. These events were scheduled for December 2nd, 4th, or 6th, or other dates. Only activities authorized by Senator Usman’s legitimate leadership are exempt.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was also cautioned. INEC is named as the 7th Defendant/Respondent in the legal matter.

The party advised INEC to distance itself completely from this “illegality.” It stated that certain individuals are orchestrating these actions. Their aim, it claimed, is to “tarnish the hard-earned reputation of the Commission.”

Finally, the Labour Party affirmed it would formally notify INEC of its “authentic activities.” This will happen in line with the Electoral Act and other relevant laws. Notification will occur once its timetable for congresses and conventions is officially released.