The Enugu State Labour Party has been plunged into turmoil following the suspension of its State Chairman, Barrister Casmir Uchenna Agbo, by the party’s State Working Committee (SWC) and local government chairmen. The decision, which was reached after a vote of no confidence was passed against him, signals a significant leadership crisis within the party. In a communiqué released to journalists after a crucial meeting in Enugu, party leaders outlined several allegations against Agbo, including insubordination, attacks on the party’s national leader, bribery, and the unauthorized removal and replacement of elected party officials.

The communiqué, which was endorsed by 14 out of the 17 local government chairmen, along with zonal chairmen and other executive members, also announced the appointment of Chief Kingsley Chideraa Ugwu as the interim leader of the party. He is expected to oversee the party’s affairs until a congress is held to elect a new chairman. According to the statement, the suspension of Agbo was deemed necessary to uphold the values and integrity of the party. The decision, which was described as unanimous, reflects a commitment by the party’s leadership to maintain order and transparency.

Several reasons were cited for Agbo’s suspension. First, concerns were raised about his handling of the party’s affairs and his alleged failure to adhere to the party’s core principles and mission. The communiqué stated that party members had lost confidence in his leadership abilities and his capacity to move the party forward effectively. Additionally, he was accused of insubordination, particularly in his treatment of the party’s national leader, Mr. Gregory Peter Obi. It was alleged that Agbo had made acerbic and vitriolic remarks against Obi, further straining relationships within the party.

Another major accusation against Agbo was his disregard for party members and elected officials. According to the communiqué, he had sidelined elected representatives and other key stakeholders, undermining their roles in party governance. It was further alleged that he had been running the party as his personal enterprise, making unilateral decisions without consulting relevant party organs. This, according to the party executives, contravened the party’s democratic structure and was a key reason for his removal.

Perhaps the most damaging accusation against Agbo was the claim that he engaged in corrupt practices, specifically the solicitation and acceptance of bribes. The communiqué stated that Agbo had allegedly demanded and received bribes from party candidates during the recent local government elections. This, along with his purported disregard for due process, particularly in the removal and replacement of party officials at ward, local government, and state levels, was seen as a major violation of party ethics and constitution.

The party leadership acknowledged that the decision to suspend Agbo was taken with a heavy heart, but emphasized that it was necessary for the continued progress and stability of the party. They reassured party members and stakeholders of their commitment to upholding the party’s mission and values, expressing confidence that the move would ultimately strengthen and reposition the party for future success.

Following Agbo’s suspension, the process of selecting a new chairman in an acting capacity commenced. The motion to suspend Agbo was moved by Hon. Chinweuba Ngwu of Enugu South and seconded by Mazi Augustine Umezuluike of Ezeagu Local Government Area. Consequently, Chief Kingsley Chideraa Ugwu was appointed as the acting chairman. His nomination was also moved by Hon. Chinweuba Ngwu and seconded by Mazi Augustine Umezuluike.

The communiqué was signed by several prominent members of the party, including

1. Chief Kingsley Chideraa Ugwu
2. Dr. Maurice Ede
3. Chief Agama Emmanuel
4. Barr. Titus Onuora Odo
5. Chief Obiigede Emmanuel Agama
6. Hon. Chinweike Ngwu
7. Mazi Augustine Umezuluike
8. Ugwu Basil
9. Chief Chinweike Nwodo
10. Ifesinachi Kenneth Williams
11. Ozioko Anthony
12. Engr. Uchenna Anyanwu
13. Pst. Mezie Iziga
14. Hon. Nwafido Aoaron
15. Hon. Daniel Odo
16. Chief S.O. Nomeh
17. Hon. Egbo Ikechukwu

At the time of filing this report, Barrister Casmir Uchenna Agbo had not responded to messages sent to his known contact number for comments regarding his suspension. His silence leaves room for speculation about his next move and whether he will challenge the decision. However, for now, the party leadership stands firm on its decision, determined to steer the Enugu State Labour Party in a new direction under interim leadership.

BY 

Journalist101