Labour Party Crisis: Auta Slams Nenadi Usman’s Appointment as ‘Unconstitutional and Null’

Michael Ayuba Auta, a 2023 Labour Party Senatorial candidate, has fiercely criticized the appointment of Senator Nenadi Usman as the party’s national caretaker chairman. Auta described the appointment as “unconstitutional, null, and void,” alleging it was made without proper consultation with key stakeholders, particularly in Kaduna State, where the party had notable successes in the last general elections.

The appointment, which was confirmed during a stakeholders’ meeting led by Abia State Governor Alex Otti and chaired by Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate, has sparked controversy across the country. The meeting appointed Usman to head a 29-member national caretaker committee responsible for overseeing state congresses and the national convention.

In a statement from Kaduna, Auta expressed frustration that those who undermined the party’s chances are being hailed as heroes, while dedicated party members are sidelined. He argued that Usman’s appointment violated the Labour Party’s constitution, which outlines specific procedures for such decisions.

Auta has called for the immediate reversal of Usman’s appointment and the convening of a stakeholders’ meeting to address grievances and chart a new course for the party. He emphasized that the process did not adhere to the party’s constitutional requirements and was made without consulting the stakeholders who have significantly contributed to the party’s growth in Kaduna State.