The Labour Party (LP) in Imo State has announced it will not participate in the upcoming local government elections scheduled for September 21. The party’s chairman, Calistus Ihejiagwa, made the declaration during a stakeholders’ meeting in Owerri, criticizing the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC) as biased and unreliable.
Ihejiagwa argued that participating in an election overseen by what he described as an “All Progressive Congress’ State Independent Electoral Commission” would be futile and unjust. “It would be a waste of resources and time,” he said, emphasizing a lack of trust in the ISIEC’s ability to conduct a fair and transparent election.
The Labour Party’s decision to boycott the election aligns with its broader strategic focus on the ongoing Supreme Court case concerning the November 11, 2023, governorship election. Ihejiagwa expressed confidence that the court would eventually overturn what he called a “stolen mandate” from Governor Hope Uzodimma, asserting that the LP had actually won that election.
Ihejiagwa urged party members to remain dedicated to the party’s principles and to continue supporting its efforts to challenge the current administration. He praised the LP as a stable and organized opposition force, highlighting its commitment to addressing the economic difficulties imposed by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
During the meeting, the party’s National Youth Leader, Prince Kennedy Ahanotu, who stood in for the National Chairman Barr. Julius Abure, reiterated the importance of LP’s role as a key opposition party. He reassured stakeholders that the LP remains free from internal crisis and emphasized its grassroots connection, reinforcing the party’s mission to offer a credible alternative to the APC’s governance.
The LP’s strategy includes amending its constitution and introducing unique membership cards to enhance party organization and identification across Imo State’s 27 local government areas. This approach is intended to solidify the party’s base and prepare it for future electoral challenges.
