BREAKING: Labour Party suspends national treasurer, Oluchi Opara

The Labour Party’s National Working Committee (NWC) has taken the decision to suspend Oluchi Opara, the party’s national treasurer, following her inquiries into the whereabouts of N3.5 billion in party funds, which she directed at the party chairman, Julius Abure.

The announcement of Opara’s suspension was made by Obiora Ifoh, the party’s national publicity secretary, during a press conference held at the party’s secretariat in Abuja on Wednesday, February 14.

Opara’s initial query to Abure regarding the N3.5 billion, raised from the sale of nomination forms and fundraising activities for the 2023 general election, occurred on February 12. Additionally, during an appearance on Arise TV’s ‘Good Morning Show’ on February 13, Opara accused the NWC, under Abure’s leadership, of collaborating with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)-led government in Edo State.

Responding to Opara’s allegations, Ifoh labeled her as a mole manipulated by dissenting elements within the party. He explained that Opara’s suspension stemmed from her failure to attend a meeting with the NWC to address the conflict, despite receiving an invitation.

Ifoh stated: “Following concerns that Opara was undermining the party’s integrity by collaborating with expelled members of the leadership, an emergency NWC meeting was convened on February 13. Subsequently, a disciplinary committee was formed to investigate Opara’s conduct and she was invited to present her case today, February 14, at 10 a.m. Unfortunately, Opara declined to attend the disciplinary hearing.”

Consequently, the disciplinary committee recommended Opara’s suspension from the Labour Party for a minimum of six months, effective immediately. Ifoh expressed regret over the situation but emphasized the party’s commitment to reform and its vision for a better Nigeria.

Efforts to obtain comments from Opara regarding her suspension were unsuccessful.