The Labour Party (LP) has sounded a strong warning to all prospective candidates: steer clear of purchasing nomination forms from the notorious “Abure” syndicate. This advisory follows a series of complaints lodged with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (INEC) and a growing chorus of internal dissent within the party.
Why the Warning Matters
Integrity of the process – Buying nomination forms undermines the democratic principles the LP stands for.
Legal repercussions – INEC has clarified that any form obtained through illicit means is null and void.
Reputational risk – Candidates linked to Abure risk being labeled as “cash‑buyers,” which can damage future political prospects.
The Abure Phenomenon Explained
Abure, a nickname for a network of middlemen operating in several states, has become synonymous with the illegal sale of LP nomination forms. They typically:
Approach aspirants with promises of “guaranteed slots” in primaries.
Charge exorbitant fees—often far above the official price set by INE C.
Provide forged or tampered documents that fail verification during the registration process.
LP’s Official Stance
In a press release dated April 28, 2024, the LP National Executive Committee (NEC) declared:
“The party will not tolerate any attempt to compromise the credibility of its internal democracy. Any aspirant found dealing with Abure will face immediate disqualification and possible expulsion.”
The party also urged members to report any suspicious activity directly to the LP headquarters or to INE C’s anti‑fraud unit.
How INE C Handles Illicit Forms
INEC has a clear protocol for dealing with fraudulent nomination documents:
Verification – Every form is cross‑checked against the party’s official database.
Audit trail – Payment receipts and signatures are examined for authenticity.
Sanctions – Candidates submitting falsified forms can be barred from the election and may face legal action under the Electoral Act 2022.
Practical Steps for Aspirants
- Obtain Forms Directly from LP or INE C
Visit the official LP office in your state or download the form from the party’s verified website.
Confirm payment receipts with the party treasurer; a stamped receipt is the only acceptable proof of payment. - Verify the Form’s Authenticity
Check the serial number against the list released by INE C.
Look for security features such as watermarks, micro‑printing, and official signatures. - Report Suspicious Offers
Contact the LP NEC via email or the dedicated hotline (0800‑LP‑SAFE).
Inform INE C through its fraud reporting portal: inec.gov.ng/report-fraud. - Keep Records
Save all communications (texts, emails, receipts).
Maintain a folder with scanned copies of the nomination form, payment evidence, and any correspondence with party officials.
The Bigger Picture: Protecting Party Democracy
The LP’s warning is not merely a reaction to one rogue group; it reflects a broader commitment to transparent, merit‑based candidate selection. By discouraging the purchase of nomination forms from Abure, the party aims to:
Encourage grassroots participation – aspirants should earn their tickets through legitimate party structures, not shortcuts.
Uphold voter confidence – when candidates are vetted properly, the electorate trusts the party’s slate of representatives.
Prevent legal challenges – clean nominations reduce the likelihood of post‑election disputes that could overturn results.
Conclusion
If you are an aspiring LP candidate, the message is crystal clear: avoid Abure at all costs. Follow the official channels, verify every document, and report any irregularities immediately. By doing so, you not only safeguard your political ambitions but also uphold the Labour Party’s reputation for integrity and democratic values.
Stay vigilant, stay lawful, and let your candidacy be built on genuine support, not on the shadowy dealings of a few.
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