Tensions Explode In Labour Party Over Who Wears The Crown in Anambra

The internal leadership turmoil within the Labour Party (LP) has intensified, with a fresh dispute emerging over the party’s governorship candidate for the upcoming Anambra State election scheduled for November 8, 2025. A faction aligned with Abia State Governor Alex Otti and the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has openly rejected the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recognition of George Moghalu as LP’s flagbearer.

Speaking with Punch, Lamidi Apapa—recognized by some as LP’s factional leader—urged Obi to unite behind Moghalu, warning that persistent division could doom the party’s chances in Anambra.

Apapa described the ongoing disunity as dangerous and cautioned against allowing internal conflicts to overshadow the urgent need for unity and strategic focus.

“Approaching such a crucial election without cohesion is a recipe for disaster,” Apapa warned.

INEC’s recent publication naming Moghalu as the official LP candidate is being interpreted by many as a validation of Julius Abure’s factional leadership. Moghalu, a former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, emerged victorious at the party’s April 5 primary held at Finotel Hotel in Awka, polling 573 out of 601 delegate votes to defeat John Nwosu. The exercise was observed by INEC officials and independent monitors.

However, the opposing faction led by Obi and Governor Otti—operating under the Nenadi Usman-led National Caretaker Committee—held a parallel primary that produced Jude Umenajiego, an Anambra State lawmaker, as their preferred candidate. Umenajiego received 180 votes, defeating Nwosu who garnered 69.

Addressing doubts over Moghalu’s candidacy, Apapa emphasized the importance of party unity over internal conflict. “Our focus should be on winning the November 8 election, not on endless in-fighting that projects us as unprepared,” he said.

He further called on Obi to put aside factional loyalties and support Moghalu, citing their shared Anambra heritage as a basis for cooperation in the face of strong opposition from incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo of APGA.

“Before the Supreme Court ruling, no one would have objected if Abure declared Moghalu or anyone else the party’s candidate. It’s crucial we respect the rule of law and stop contesting every outcome. This is politics, not a courtroom drama,” Apapa added.

He also appealed to Obi to mediate and work towards reconciliation. “Obi and Moghalu are both sons of Anambra. Why not bring both camps together and settle this now? The election is near, and our true priority should be serving the people, not fighting among ourselves,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Tony Akeni, spokesperson for the Usman-led faction, outrightly rejected INEC’s recognition of Moghalu, branding it part of a calculated plan to weaken LP ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“This move is part of a grand conspiracy to derail Labour Party’s momentum before 2027. Key figures in our committee are confronting INEC head-on over this issue,” Akeni told Punch.

In response to the deepening crisis, the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held an emergency meeting, with another special session under the leadership of Nenadi Usman scheduled for Wednesday to deliberate further on the matter.