TheCable

The Labour Party (LP) has warned its lawmakers to desist from rushing to the press on issues bordering on the internal affairs of the party.

BACKGROUND

On Sunday, the house of representatives caucus of the LP called for postponement of the national convention of the party scheduled for March 27.

The convention was initially slated for March 29, but was then moved forward to March 27.

The leadership of the party said the date was changed because the initial date falls on Good Friday, a very important day in the Christian calendar.

Afam Ogene, leader of the LP caucus, in a statement, said the national convention should be postponed for “proper planning”.

The LP caucus said the party needs more time to make proper and wider consultations.

The caucus also said the party needs to carry every stakeholder along, before holding such an important event.

‘MISCHIEF TAKEN TOO FAR’

Reacting in a statement issued on Monday by Obiora Ifoh, national publicity secretary of the party, the LP said it had informed the caucus of the change of plans before it was effected.

The LP said it is shocked that house of representatives members are always quick to rush to the media whenever it takes a major decision.

It also said it will not hesitate to discipline any member of the LP who has scant regard for party supremacy.

“The attention of the leadership of the Labour Party has been drawn to a statement made by the Labour Party caucus leader in the House of Representatives, Hon Afam Ogene to the effect that it is unconventional to conduct our convention before state, local government and ward congresses,” the statement reads.

“By this statement from Hon. Ogene, it is pertinent to point out that he is very unknowledgeable as it relates to the provision of the constitution of the party under which he was elected.

“We had expected Hon. Ogene to read the constitution of the party before making public comments against the party.

“The leader of the caucus is the alter ego of the party who should defend the party policy and programs in the national assembly.

“And for him to say that the House of Representatives caucus was not informed about the convention is clearly a mischief taken too far.

“For the records, the House of Representatives through the caucus leader, was duly informed about the coming convention.

“It is therefore very unhealthy for him to rush to the press to misinform our members.

“We had expected him to be a liaison between the party leadership and the national assembly, and as a leader he claims to be, to help in ensuring that peace reigns in the party at all times.”

‘YOU’VE FAILED TO BE TRUE AMBASSADORS OF THE PEOPLE’

The LP further said its reps members have failed to be true ambassadors of the people.

It also warned the lawmakers that internal matters of the party must remain within the party.

“We are also shocked that members of the House of Representatives elected under the Labour Party are always quick to rush to the media whenever we make major decisions,” the statement added.

“This is against the background that they have never risen to the occasion as members of the Labour Party in the House who are supposed to be the voice of the people and speak truth to power, in spite of the numerous challenges the country is going through.

“Again, considering the sacrifices made by Nigerians in electing these Labour Party legislators, we had expected them to be the Ambassadors of the People.

“It is obvious that it is only when it concerns the party that they flex muscles.

“We therefore advice our lawmakers to desist from rushing to the press on party matters. Party internal matters must remain and kept internal matters.

“The party will not hesitate to discipline any party member who will not respect the supremacy of the party.

“The party is prepared to defend its ideology and constitution at all times irrespective of whose ox is gored.”

The LP also assured its members that it will continue consultations with stakeholders at all levels, to ensure that a free, fair and rancour free convention is conducted on March 27.