We Understand Why They Left” – Nenadi Usman Reacts To Court Ruling And Peter Obi’s LP Comeback

Senator Nenadi Usman, Chairman of the Labour Party’s National Caretaker Committee, has hailed the court ruling on the party’s long-standing leadership dispute as a triumph for democracy and a pivotal moment for the opposition party.

Speaking to TVC News after the judgment, Usman expressed satisfaction with the outcome, commending both her legal team and the judiciary for upholding democratic principles.

“I am pleased with the ruling. I appreciate my team of lawyers and the judiciary for their dedication. It’s heartening to see the courts again playing their part in strengthening democracy in Nigeria,” she said.

She emphasized that democracy can only flourish when the judiciary is independent, assertive, and functional. “Democracy thrives in the presence of a strong, independent, and functional judiciary. A robust judiciary is essential for sustainable democratic development,” Usman noted.

The senator added that the judgment marks the end of the internal leadership struggles that have plagued the Labour Party since 2023. “This ruling has brought closure to the leadership crisis we have faced since 2023. Our next step is to unite members, foster peace, and move forward,” she said.

Usman outlined plans for party reconciliation and restructuring, which include holding congresses at local, state, and national levels, culminating in a national convention to reposition the party. “Our immediate focus is on organizing congresses at all levels and a national convention to strengthen the party,” she explained.

Addressing recent defections, including that of former presidential candidate Peter Obi, Usman said the departures were understood and carried the party’s blessing. “Peter Obi and others who left have our blessing. We understand why some members departed after over a year of court battles,” she said.

She also stressed that the Labour Party is not dependent on any single individual and will continue to reorganize itself into a strong political force. Usman added that she has not discussed Obi’s possible return for the 2027 elections but wished him well. “I haven’t spoken with Peter Obi about a potential return to the Labour Party for 2027, but I wish him the best,” she said.

Finally, she noted that her faction had been operating from a separate location due to the leadership dispute but expressed confidence that the court ruling now allows the caretaker committee to fully take charge of party structures. “With this clear court decision, we can now assume full control and reposition the party going forward,” Usman concluded.