The Labour Party (LP) has issued a stern warning to its federal lawmakers, particularly those in the House of Representatives, cautioning them to uphold the party’s authority or risk disciplinary measures.
In a statement released on Monday by Obiora Ifoh, the LP’s National Publicity Secretary, the party expressed disappointment in its members’ failure to represent the interests of the people and uphold the values of the Labour Party.
Ifoh highlighted a statement made by the LP’s caucus leader in the House of Representatives, Hon. Afam Ogene, criticizing the conventional conduct of conventions before state, local government, and ward congresses.
He emphasized that Ogene’s remarks displayed a lack of understanding of the party’s constitution under which he was elected.
The LP spokesperson expressed dismay that party members elected to the House of Representatives often resort to media confrontation rather than addressing internal issues within the party.
He underscored the need for lawmakers to prioritize the interests of the party and refrain from tarnishing its reputation in the public eye.
“It appears that they seat (sic) at the national assembly for theirselves 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.