The Labour Party has cautioned federal lawmakers, especially those elected on its platform to the House of Representatives, to respect the party’s authority or face disciplinary measures.
This warning was issued in a statement released on Monday by Obiora Ifoh, the National Publicity Secretary of the party.
The statement expressed disappointment in the lawmakers for not representing the people and the Labour Party effectively, despite the efforts made by Nigerians to elect them.
Ifoh specifically mentioned that the party’s leadership is concerned about a statement made by the LP’s caucus leader in the House of Representatives, Hon. Afam Ogene, who claimed that it is not standard practice to hold a convention before state, local government, and ward congresses.
The spokesperson stated that Ogene lacks understanding of the party’s constitution, which he was elected under.
He advised Ogene not to confuse the constitutions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) with those of the Labour Party.
Ifoh was surprised that House of Representatives members elected under the Labour Party always quickly go to the media when major decisions are made.
He noted that these lawmakers have not fulfilled their role as representatives of the people in the house, who should speak truth to power, despite the many challenges facing the country.
“It appears that they sit (sic) at the national assembly for themselves alone. It is obvious that it is only when it concerns the party that they flex muscles. They need not be told of the persecution the party leadership has been undergoing in the hands of the government in power as a result of their election into offices and yet, they have no qualms in bringing the party to opprobrium at any given opportunity.
“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,” parts of the statement read.
