Oluchi Opara, the former National Treasurer of the Labour Party, has strongly accused the party’s embattled National Chairman, Julius Abure, of misappropriating ₦3.5 billion in party funds.
This statement came in response to Abure’s recent remarks denying involvement in handling campaign funds. Abure claimed that the funds were managed by designated officials of the Obidient family, with Doyin Okupe and Akin Oshuntokun overseeing the Southern States, and Datti Baba-Ahmed handling the Northern States. He added that Peter Obi personally handled campaign donations, which were directed to accounts with Aisha Yesufu and Pastor Itua Ighodalo as signatories.
Abure further asserted that the party and its officials were not involved in any financial transactions related to the presidential campaign and vowed to defend the mandate given to them at the March 2024 party convention, despite any intimidation or harassment.
In her rebuttal, Oluchi Opara stated, “I, Mrs. Oluchi Opara, former National Treasurer of the Labour Party, have brought to light a serious issue requiring immediate attention. Julius Abure, the former Acting National Chairman of the party, is accused of misappropriating ₦3.5 billion that was raised during the 2023 general election.
“Rather than addressing these grave allegations, Mr. Abure is attempting to discredit our principal, Peter Obi. As the former National Treasurer, I have detailed knowledge of the party’s financial dealings and can confirm that these allegations are serious and not baseless.
“The ₦3.5 billion in question was intended for crucial party expenses, but evidence suggests it was diverted for personal use. Mr. Abure’s attempt to shift the blame and attack Peter Obi is a desperate attempt to avoid accountability.
“I urge Mr. Abure to address these allegations directly. The party deserves transparency and honesty from its leaders. I call on the Labour Party leadership and relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate these claims and ensure accountability.
“Accountability is essential for good governance and leadership. I will not remain silent while our party’s integrity is at stake. Mr. Abure must provide evidence to clear his name, and justice must prevail.”
Additionally, Aisha Yesufu took to her official X account to refute Abure’s claims. She stated, “Julius Abure thinks we are still in 1980 where one can lie shamelessly without being fact-checked,” and shared pictures of the 2023 election campaign donation flyer with detailed information.