The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially excluded all candidates submitted by the Julius Abure-led faction of the Labour Party (LP) from participating in the upcoming August 16, 2025, bye-elections and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections.
This decision follows ongoing legal and internal disputes within the Labour Party, particularly regarding the authenticity of leadership and proper nomination procedures. INEC, in its final published list of candidates, omitted names submitted by Abure’s camp, signaling a significant blow to the faction’s electoral chances.
INEC cited non-compliance with electoral guidelines and unresolved leadership issues as primary reasons for the exclusion, reaffirming its position to recognize only candidates that emerge through legally constituted and transparent processes.
Political analysts say the move could deepen the crisis within the Labour Party, potentially affecting its preparations for the 2027 general elections.
This development has also sparked renewed calls from party loyalists and stakeholders for reconciliation and legal clarity to prevent further damage to the party’s image and grassroots support.
INEC has assured the public of its commitment to upholding transparency and legal integrity in all electoral matters.
