NLC Warns INEC Against Validating Labour Party National Convention

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging it not to validate the Labour Party (LP) National Convention slated for March 27, 2024.

In a letter addressed to INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, dated March 22, 2024, and drafted by the NLC’s legal representatives, Falana and Falana’s Chambers, the NLC accused LP Chairman Julius Abure and his associates of planning an illegal convention in defiance of court orders.

The NLC emphasized that such a national convention would be unlawful in light of existing court rulings that had declared the LP’s status and mandated inclusive conventions.

Signed by Marshal Abubakar, the letter threatened legal action against INEC if it failed to heed the NLC’s demand.

Titled “Request To Desist From Validating The Illegal Labour Party National Convention Scheduled For March 27, 2024,” the letter highlighted the legal precedents, including judgments from the Federal High Court, which underscored the illegality of the planned convention.

It referenced Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/866/2014 between Labour Party and 3 Ors. vs. Com. Salisu Muhammed, where the court had affirmed the LP as “an institutional political party founded, promoted, and registered by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on behalf of the Nigerian Workers,” and mandated inclusive conventions.

Similarly, the letter cited Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/491/2021 between Labour Party & 9 Ors. vs. Barrister Julius Abure& 2 Ors., wherein the court had issued injunctions against certain LP officials.

The NLC urged INEC to refrain from undermining the rule of law by supporting the illegal convention and threatened to initiate contempt proceedings if its demands were not met promptly.

The letter concluded by emphasizing the NLC’s commitment to upholding justice and respect for the rule of law in Nigeria’s political landscape.