INEC’s exclusion of Julius Abure praised as victory for democratic accountability

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has drawn praise for what is being described as a firm and principled stand on political party discipline, following its decision to exclude Julius Abure, the ousted National Chairman of the Labour Party, from key events held last week.

INEC reportedly barred Abure from both the groundbreaking ceremony for its new National Headquarters and the INEC-Political Parties Consultative Meeting, held on June 26, 2025. The decision is seen by many observers as a direct response to the recent Supreme Court ruling, which invalidated Abure’s continued claim to leadership and overturned earlier judgments from lower courts that had recognized his position.

Reacting to the development, Oluchi Oparah, former National Treasurer of the Labour Party, issued a strongly worded statement lauding INEC for what she called “a commendable and principled stand.”

“In excluding Mr. Julius Abure,” Oparah said, “INEC has reinforced justice, discipline, and democratic integrity. This is not only honorable but entirely in line with the Supreme Court’s decision. INEC has shown its unwavering commitment to ensuring that political parties operate within the confines of their constitutional frameworks.”

She further expressed approval of INEC’s decision not to recognize the congresses and primaries conducted by Abure’s faction ahead of the June 28 FCT Area Council elections.

“I commend INEC’s decision not to attend the sham congresses and primaries conducted by Julius Abure’s outgone leadership,” Oparah stated. “This resolute stance further underscores INEC’s commitment to upholding the integrity of electoral processes and rejecting any attempts to legitimize unconstitutional actions.”

Oparah accused Abure of clinging to power despite clear constitutional limits, warning that such behavior sets a dangerous precedent. “I strongly condemn Mr. Julius Abure’s sit-tight mentality, which reflects a blatant disregard for the Labour Party’s constitution and the principles of democratic leadership,” she said. “Such a culture is unacceptable and must be rejected by all well-meaning citizens and dedicated members of the Labour Party.”

According to her, Abure’s actions have not only undermined the Labour Party’s internal structure but have also eroded public trust in Nigeria’s political institutions.

She described INEC’s move as a strong message to political officeholders that “no individual, regardless of their position, is above the law.”

“INEC deserves resounding commendation for its resolute action,” she added. “By enforcing compliance with the constitutional provisions of political parties, particularly on matters of tenure, INEC is sending a clear message: mischief, manipulation, and lawlessness have no place in our democracy.”

Oparah called on all members of the Labour Party to rally against undemocratic tendencies and promote accountability and constitutional order within their ranks.

“We must stand united in rejecting any attempts to undermine the rule of law and the democratic principles that guide our party,” she said.

She concluded with a charge to INEC to maintain its vigilance. “I urge INEC to sustain this level of impartiality in its oversight of political party affairs. By holding party officials accountable, INEC can help cultivate a political culture where discipline, integrity, and respect for the rule of law prevail.”