The Labour Party is embroiled in a fresh controversy as its suspended National Treasurer, Ms. Oluchi Oparah, challenges the party’s National Chairman, Julius Abure, to explain the whereabouts of funds raised during the campaign tour of LP presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in the United States.
Tensions within the Labour Party have escalated following the suspension of its National Treasurer, Ms. Oluchi Oparah, who has levied serious accusations against the party’s leadership, particularly National Chairman Julius Abure, regarding the alleged misappropriation of campaign funds.
Oparah’s suspension came in the wake of her claims that Abure diverted a staggering sum of N3.5 billion purportedly raised from the sale of nomination forms and fundraising activities ahead of the 2023 general elections. In response, Abure vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that only N1.3 billion had been raised, including N800 million designated for campaign purposes.
Undeterred by the suspension and Abure’s rebuttals, Oparah has challenged the chairman to provide a transparent account of the donations received during the Labour Party’s presidential campaign tour in the United States. According to Oparah, funds raised during the US tour were meticulously documented, with tickets priced at $500 and $100 bearing the party’s name. However, she alleges that upon Abure’s return, no funds were remitted.
Furthermore, Oparah raised concerns over the handling of party finances, alleging that Abure has been the sole individual authorized to withdraw funds for nearly a year, purportedly utilizing proxy accounts to siphon party funds without proper oversight.
In response to these accusations, Abure maintained his innocence, dismissing Oparah’s claims as attempts to besmirch his reputation. He clarified that changes to the party’s account signatories were made in consultation with other party officials to facilitate the smooth operation of the party, emphasizing that all transactions were conducted transparently and with the approval of relevant parties.
Amidst the swirling allegations and counterclaims, the Labour Party faces a critical juncture, with internal strife threatening to undermine its credibility and cohesion.
