A major leadership crisis has erupted in the Labour Party following the Supreme Court’s ruling that removed Julius Abure as National Chairman, with Alhaji Bashiru Lamidi Apapa declaring himself as the new acting leader of the party.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, Apapa cited the April 4 Supreme Court judgment that nullified Abure’s chairmanship and stated that, as the most senior Deputy National Chairman, he was constitutionally empowered to take over the party’s leadership in an acting capacity.

“In line with Article 14 2(a)(b) of our party’s constitution, I, Alhaji Bashiru Lamidi Apapa, hereby assume the role of Acting National Chairman of the Labour Party, effective immediately. Alhaji Farouk Umar Ibrahim will serve as National Secretary,” Apapa announced.

He further asserted that all decisions taken by Julius Abure since April 4, 2023, are considered invalid, following the apex court’s dismissal of Abure’s cross-appeal.

Apapa revealed that the Labour Party’s National Working Committee (NWC), as constituted in 2022, will convene on Monday, April 14, 2025, to deliberate on the future of the party. He disclosed plans to zone the position of National Chairman to the North and the office of National Secretary to the South as part of the party’s internal