The Chairman of the Labour Party’s National Caretaker Committee, Senator Nenadi Usman, has described the court’s judgement on the party’s prolonged leadership crisis as a victory for democracy and a major turning point for the opposition party.
Speaking to TVC News after the ruling, Usman expressed satisfaction with the judgement, commending both her legal team and the judiciary for upholding democratic principles.
“I was happy with the ruling. I appreciate my team of lawyers and the judiciary for a job well done. I am also happy that the judiciary has again played its role in ensuring the continued development of democracy in Nigeria,” she said.
Usman stressed that democracy can only flourish under an independent, assertive and functional judiciary, noting that a strong judicial system is essential for democratic development.
According to her, the judgement has effectively ended the leadership tussle that has plagued the Labour Party since 2023.
“This ruling has put an end to the crisis of leadership we have faced since 2023. It is now left for us to bring everyone together, make peace and forge ahead,” she said.
She disclosed that the party’s next focus would be reconciliation and rebuilding, beginning with the organisation of congresses at all levels.
Usman said the party plans to conduct local government, state and national congresses, as well as a national convention, to reposition the Labour Party for future political engagements.
Reacting to recent defections from the party, including that of former presidential candidate Peter Obi, Usman said those who left did so with the party’s understanding and blessing.
“Peter Obi and others who have moved have our blessing. We also understand why some of them left. It has been over a year of moving from one court to another to resolve these issues,” she said.
She maintained that the Labour Party is not built around any single individual and would continue to reorganise itself into a strong political force.
Usman added that she had not discussed a possible return to the party with Obi ahead of the 2027 elections but wished him well.
“I have not spoken to Peter Obi on whether he may want to come back to the Labour Party to contest on our platform in 2027, but I wish him well,” she said.
She further revealed that her faction had been operating from a separate location due to the leadership dispute but expressed confidence that the court’s judgement would enable the caretaker committee to fully take over party structures.
“With the unambiguous judgement delivered by the court today, I expect that we will be able to take over and reposition the party going forward,” Usman said.