ABIA LG ELECTION: Nomination Forms Authorized by LP National Leadership Were Sold by my Committee.

The National Vice Chairman for the South East region of the Labour Party and Chairman for the 2024 Local Government elections in Abia State, Mr. Ceekay Igara, has refuted claims regarding the existence of parallel primary elections within the state. He emphasized that the nomination forms distributed to candidates by his committee were authorized by the national leadership of the Labour Party, which includes the national chairman, Julius Abure, and the secretary. During a media briefing, Igara clarified that the Labour Party operates under a national working committee, as recognized by both the party's constitution and the Electoral Act, rather than an interim working committee. He stated, "A federal high court in Abuja has affirmed the legitimacy of the national convention held in Anambra State. Additionally, a federal high court has recognized Julius Abure as the national chairman of the Labour Party." Providing an update on the pre-election preparations for the local government elections scheduled for November 2 in Abia State, Igara disclosed that nomination forms have been sold, primaries have been conducted, and they are now awaiting the national executive council's approval of the candidate list before submission to the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC). He noted that Articles 27, paragraphs 6 and 8 of the Labour Party's constitution empower the council to vet and approve candidates, as well as to make necessary amendments. Igara further asserted that selecting candidates who are popular among the electorate is crucial for the party's success in securing all 17 seats in the upcoming local government elections in Abia State. When asked about resolving the ongoing crisis within the state, Igara recommended adherence to the party's constitution and established protocols as a means to address the issues facing the Abia State chapter of the party. He concluded by stating that no individual, regardless of their status, is above the party, and emphasized the importance of consultation and discussion prior to making decisions.