N3.5 Billion Earnings: LP Reacts to Allegations Against Chairman Abure

The Labour Party (LP) has refuted claims made by its national treasurer, Ms. Oluchi Opara, stating that the party earned N3.5 billion. The LP, in a statement signed by the national publicity secretary, Pastor Obiora Ifoh, has announced that Ms. Opera will face a disciplinary committee for making false allegations against the party’s national chairman, Mr. Julius Abure.

Ifoh emphasized that these allegations were baseless and malicious, particularly coming from a party executive member who is well aware of the party’s financial dealings. According to the statement, Ms. Opara’s tenure in office is set to expire soon, and her departure from the party’s executive is imminent.

The LP accused Ms. Opara of reading a fabricated statement prepared by the party’s detractors to tarnish the image of the LP and its national chairman. Ifoh clarified that no other member of the national working committee had raised concerns about embezzlement against Mr. Abure.

The statement highlighted the LP’s achievements in the 2023 general election, introducing a credible presidential candidate. It firmly denied the claimed N3.5 billion earnings, asserting that the party’s financial records are scrutinized by an external auditor and regulatory bodies.

The LP reiterated the constitutional roles of both the national chairman and treasurer, emphasizing that Mr. Abure, as the accounting officer, adheres to approved expenditures. The statement criticized Ms. Opara’s alleged lack of understanding of basic accounting principles and emphasized the party’s commitment to transparency.

The LP’s statement shed light on the party’s historical lack of accounting books and methods when under the leadership of the former chairman and Ms. Oluchi, the treasurer. With the emergence of the Abure-led executive, the party implemented structured accounting methods, a move not welcomed by Ms. Opara.

Despite efforts to dissuade Ms. Opera from aligning with detractors, the party expressed surprise at her continued association with enemies of the LP. The statement concluded by confirming the party’s intent to take Ms. Opara’s case to the disciplinary committee, where appropriate measures will be taken in due course.