The Labour Party has expressed outrage over the arrest of its National Vice Chairman for the South-East region, Ceekay Igara, allegedly orchestrated by Abia State Governor Alex Otti.

The party leadership described the incident as shocking, particularly since it was carried out on the orders of the party’s only state governor.

According to the party’s Deputy National Chairman, Ayo Olorunfemi, Igara was arrested by policemen during a meeting with party leaders in Aba, Abia State. The Labour Party accused Governor Otti of masterminding the arrest and demanded Igara’s immediate release.

Background of the Issue

• The Labour Party had previously supported Otti in the 2023 governorship election and defended his victory.
• Otti had hosted a stakeholders’ meeting in Abia and formed a caretaker committee, which the party saw as an attempt to seize power.
• The courts had affirmed the leadership of Julius Abure and declared the Nnewi Convention valid, prompting the party to extend an olive branch to Otti.

The Labour Party is now demanding Igara’s release or that he be charged in court within 24 hours, as specified by law.

This development highlights the growing tensions between the Labour Party and Governor Otti, with the party feeling betrayed by his actions.