By Simeon OSAJIE
The Edo State Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Comrade Kelly Ogbaloi, has dismissed claims that the party has collapsed in the state following recent defections and internal disputes, insisting that the party remains active and is preparing for forthcoming elections.
Speaking amid reports of high-profile defections, Comrade Ogbaloi maintained that Nigeria’s legal framework does not prohibit politicians from moving between political parties, describing such decisions as constitutionally protected.
According to him, “As we speak, there is no legislation in Nigeria that forbids an individual from moving from one political party to another. Every politician retains the constitutional right to freedom of association and choice.”
He stressed that while individuals are free to make personal political decisions, such actions do not diminish the institutional strength of the party or erase its structures at the state level.
“People may join and leave, but the party remains. Labour Party has come to stay here in Edo State, and we are managing our situation,” he stated.
The chairman acknowledged that the party has experienced internal crises in recent times but described the situation as part of the democratic process, noting that internal disagreements are not peculiar to the Labour Party.
“It is no secret that Labour Party has had its internal wrangling. However, these issues are being resolved. Every political party at some point experiences internal disagreements,” he added.
He referenced a recent Court judgment which, according to him, clarified leadership questions at the national level by affirming a new national chairman, adding that the ruling has brought greater stability to the party’s structure.
On a leadership dispute within the Edo State chapter, Comrade Ogbaloi disclosed that the matter had been settled in court, with the judgment holding that the contested appointment lacked constitutional backing and failed to meet quorum requirements under the party’s constitution.
“The court made it clear that due process was not followed. That effectively resolved the matter,” he added, noting that the legal clarification has put to rest questions surrounding the state leadership.
Responding to speculation that the Labour Party no longer exists in Edo State, he described the claims as baseless and politically motivated, aimed at weakening the party ahead of the elections.
“I remain the chairman of Labour Party in Edo State. It is incorrect for anyone to say Labour Party is dead here. The structure is intact, and activities are ongoing,” he said.