Abure Challenges LP Lawmakers on Electoral Reform

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, has called for a complete electoral reform in order to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and regain the trust of the people in the system.

Abure made the call when LP members in the National Assembly paid the party leadership a courtesy call at its Ssecretariat in Abuja.

He said, “This visit is to show that we are one, formidable opposition party. We thank God that we retained our strength in the House. I’m also facing the same challenge.

“You have been the symbol of the people, you will not abandon them. Many have been killed and maimed, you have become the voice of the voiceless. I hope that you will continue to keep faith.

“Opposition is the soul of democracy. It is only in this part of the world that we see opposition as an anthem. There must be a strong opposition for the survival of democracy.

“You are the symbol of a new beginning. Moving forward as a party, we think that a reform of the electoral system is necessary. We need a holistic electoral reform.

“I will say that LP, with your support, we will begin with mobilisation, political education is important. Leadership is not only the problem, followership is also the problem. The party will be with you in all your struggles and challenges,” he added.

Deputy House Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, George Ozodinobi, who led the group, said that LP, led by Mr Peter Obi, had performed the magic of the century by turning the country’s political landscape just within eight months.

“This visit is a courtesy visit in the sense that within 8 or 9 months, the leadership of the party led by Peter Obi, did the miracle of the century.

“A party without structure was able to shake the country. This visit was delayed because of court cases. It is to thank Obi, and the National Working Committee and to appreciate the party for giving us the platform.”