Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Nigeria Renaissance Group (NRG) has called on the Labour Party (LP) to address its internal divisions and establish a unified front.
A statement by Convener, Isa Yakubu and Secretary Mr. Tunde Isaac, highlighted the party’s potential, marred by persistent indiscipline.
It asserted that internal strife significantly hampered the LP’s performance in the 2023 elections.
“Unfortunately, there were no sanctions to nip the scenario in the bud, which created a negative image in the eyes of the voting public before the elections. Indeed, many started querying whether the once promising party would be able to meet the yearnings of Nigerians with the rancour within the system should the party win elections,” the statement said.
The group cited specific instances of alleged anti-party activities, including former National Publicity Secretary Abayomi Arabambi’s endorsement of candidates from other political parties and his court testimony against the LP’s elected officials. They also referenced his involvement with the Lamidu Apapa’s faction, which they claimed escalated the conflict to the election petition tribunal.
“The world, including Peter Obi’s former spokesman, Kenneth Okonkwo, watched in amazement as these people did their best to bring down the party. Unfortunately, Arabambi, in particular, was seen with our party chairman, Julius Abure, at different occasions while the crisis was on,” the NRG stated.
The group emphasised that Arabambi’s position as publicity secretary had been filled following the party’s recent convention.
Looking ahead, the NRG urged the LP to initiate a rebuilding process by engaging with influential LP groups nationwide, particularly in Lagos State. They recommended convening a meeting of select group leaders to strategize for the future.
“The party must also, as a matter of urgency, build a strong disciplinary machinery that would ensure sanctions on erring members to build public confidence,” the statement concluded.