“We can tell the public that the rift in the LP is due to a power tussle between Obi and Otti.” — Dr Barry Johnson
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recognised Chief George Moghalu as the Labour Party’s candidate for the November 8, 2025 Anambra governorship election, affirming Julius Abure’s leadership.
Moghalu, who emerged from the Abure-led faction, polled 573 votes at the party’s April 5 primary in Awka. INEC monitored the exercise, which had 601 accredited delegates.
However, a rival LP faction held a separate primary five days later, producing Jude Umenajiego as its candidate. Umenajiego, a state lawmaker, rejected Moghalu’s emergence, insisting he is the valid candidate.
The development intensifies the party’s internal crisis, which National Deputy Youth Leader Dr Barry Johnson attributes to a growing power struggle between LP’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi and Abia Governor Alex Otti, both eyeing influence ahead of the 2027 polls.
Johnson revealed the LP is now split into three camps—Abure, Obi, and Otti—warning that the party’s unity may further erode without reconciliation.
Despite the tension, the party officially backs Moghalu.