The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, has boldly fired back at the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and other former aspirants, demanding they provide evidence of any financial support they allegedly gave to him or the party during the last general elections.
In a video broadcast by Symfoni on Tuesday, Abure firmly denied any claims that he had received funds for personal use from Obi or any other candidate. He strongly stated that no funds had been given to him for personal gain, challenging anyone who claims otherwise to come forward with proof.
Abure made it clear that he would expose any party members attempting to tarnish his reputation. He warned that if provoked, he would make their actions known to the public, causing them to be left with reputations as “rotten eggs.”
Addressing party members in the Federal Capital Territory, Abure said, “I want to challenge all of them. I saw some of them on television talking about corruption. Let any of them from Peter Obi down come forward and publicly declare what they personally gave to me or the party.”
He further insisted that the individuals making the allegations should come forward with specific details: “Who brought the money? Who was it given to? Where was it sent? I challenge them today to come out boldly with or without evidence and say it. Otherwise, let them forever remain silent.”
Abure also announced plans to hold a world press conference to address the growing tensions and accusations that have divided the party. He expressed that his initial silence on the matter was intended to maintain peace and unity within the party.
“As a leader, I kept quiet thinking they were making mistakes and would eventually come around,” he explained. “When issues about election agents and funds came up, I said nothing because I believed I should accept the good, the bad, and the ugly within our fold.”
However, he noted that certain actions had crossed a line, and now he had no choice but to speak out. “When I open my mouth, they will stink like rotten eggs no one wants to touch,” Abure warned.
Abure also turned his criticism toward Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, accusing him of failing to contribute financially to the party during the election.
“That governor who is jumping like a cricket from one point to another, we did not collect a dime from him. If he gave money to anyone, let him come forward and say so,” he said. Abure recalled a conversation with Otti where he claimed to have told the governor, “Nothing. Use your money for your campaign.”
