In a surprising turn of events just hours before the Labour Party (LP) was set to hold its governorship primaries in Anambra State, leading contender John Nwosu has stepped down from the race, citing legal flaws and procedural breaches.

Nwosu, who had been gearing up to compete against Dr. George Moghalu, former Director General of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), made the announcement in a statement released early Saturday.

He pointed to the recent Supreme Court decision that removed Barrister Julius Abure as LP’s National Chairman, stating that the ruling invalidates all party activities conducted under Abure’s leadership — including the primaries.

“Upon thorough review of the irregularities, misconduct, and violations by LP officials at both national and state levels in charge of the Anambra primary process, it’s evident they acted contrary to the Labour Party constitution, as well as INEC’s guidelines and regulations,” Nwosu said.

He claimed the delegates’ list for the primary was doctored and released at the last moment, undermining the transparency of the process. According to him, no proper delegates’ congress was conducted in any of Anambra’s 21 local government areas, yet a questionable list of delegates was produced.

“That list was repeatedly altered and only made public at the party secretariat eight hours before the primary, a clear breach of electoral protocol,” he added.

Calling the process “a mockery,” Nwosu said he could not, in good faith, be part of an election tainted by what he described as serious violations and illegitimacy.

“Participating would amount to endorsing a flawed process, which goes against my integrity, Christian values, and personal principles,” he stated.

He extended his gratitude to supporters across Anambra and beyond, assuring them of his continued commitment to seeking political office through honest and transparent means.