The internal turmoil within Nigeria’s Labour Party escalated on Tuesday as National Chairman Julius Abure criticized party critics, including 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti, over accusations of corruption and financial mismanagement.

During a press briefing in Abuja, Abure rejected claims of receiving funds from either Obi or Otti during the 2023 general elections and challenged them to publicly reveal any money they allege to have given to him or the party.

“I want to challenge all of them. Let any of them from Peter Obi down come forward and publicly declare what they personally gave to me or the party... Otherwise, let them forever remain silent,” Abure declared.

Abure explained that he had stayed silent to maintain unity within the party, but he is now prepared to reveal damaging details if provoked any further.

“As a leader, I kept quiet, thinking they were making mistakes and would eventually come around. But now that some have crossed the line, I have no choice.

“If they provoke me further, I will reveal everything. When I open my mouth, they will stink like rotten eggs no one wants to touch,” he said.

He specifically accused Governor Otti of failing to make any financial contribution to the party during the elections, despite public appearances implying the opposite.

“That governor who is jumping like a cricket from one point to another, we did not collect a dime from him.

“When we met at Transcorp, he asked, ‘Chairman, what do I do for you?’ I told him, ‘Nothing. Use your money for your campaign,” Abure said.

He wrapped up by revealing plans to hold a world press conference to discuss the escalating divide within the party.