The Labour Party (LP) has condemned what it described as an “anti-democratic incident” after its National Chairman, Julius Abure, was allegedly physically assaulted by activist Precious Oruche, popularly known as Mama P, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
The altercation, according to eyewitnesses, continued during a Max Air flight to Benin and only ended after police intervened upon arrival.
Obiora Ifoh, National Publicity Secretary of the LP, said the attack was unprovoked. “Abure was patiently queuing for a flight when Mama P suddenly pounced on him.
Despite attempts by airline staff to restore calm, the confrontation persisted throughout the journey and continued after landing until security agents escorted Abure to safety,” he stated.
The party has demanded a full police investigation and accountability for what it termed a calculated provocation.
The Labour Party further alleged that Mama P later released a video boasting of her high-level connections, suggesting she believed she could act with impunity.
Officials claimed this raised concerns that Abure’s assault might have been orchestrated by external political forces determined to destabilise the party.
However, in a counterclaim, Mama P accused Abure himself of sponsoring violence against her.
Speaking in a separate video, she alleged that the LP chairman ordered thugs to physically assault her after she confronted him at the airport about his leadership style and ongoing internal crises within the party.
The clash underscores the growing divisions within the Labour Party since the 2023 elections. Abure’s faction has resisted calls for his resignation and even suspended Governor Alex Otti and several lawmakers over alleged anti-party activities.
Tensions have also been heightened by its fractured relationship with Peter Obi, the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, who has since aligned with an opposition coalition.
The LP leadership has formally called on the Inspector General of Police to investigate the matter, identify any “sponsoring agents,” and ensure that those behind the incident face justice. Meanwhile, security operatives in Benin confirmed that Mama P was taken into custody for questioning after the airport confrontation.
As both sides trade accusations, the incident has further exposed the rift within the Labour Party and raised concerns over the extent to which Nigeria’s political conflicts are spilling into physical confrontations.
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