The National Chairman of the Labour Party, LP, Julius Abure, has declared that he forgives all who dragged his name through the mud and falsely accused him during the party’s leadership crisis.

He made this known as his first official act after a Federal High Court, in Abuja affirmed him as the national chairman of the Labour Party.

Justice Nwite declared that Abure-led leadership and the March 27, 2024, Nnewi convention that produced the national leadership should be recognized as legitimate.

Reacting to the declaration, Abure called on Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, to reunite the party.

Recall that some members of the party led by Peter Obi and the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, convened a meeting in Umuahia where they announced the dissolution of the Abure-led LP National Working Committee and the appointment of Senator Nanedi Usman-led 29-member Interim National Committee to steer the party’s affairs for a 90-day period.

In a statement titled: “A New Dawn for Labour Party: Victory, Forgiveness and Unity," Abure commended the Justices of the Courts in Abuja and Umuahia for resisting external pressure to deliver justice in the case.

He said, “Now that the court has spoken, I offer my forgiveness to those who attempted to undermine our party, engaged in character assassination and blackmail, especially of my person.

“However, in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ, I say, ‘I forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.’ Forgiveness must be accompanied by repentance and restitution.

“It is my sincere hope that those involved in these actions will reflect on their mistakes, come forward with a repentant heart, and reconcile themselves with the party.

“In doing so, they should also consider restitution for the damages they have caused us. Only then can we truly move forward, heal our party, and work for the common good of Nigeria.

“Be that as it may, I call on Peter Obi, the former Presidential candidate of our party to help unite the party.”

He had earlier stated, “It is with immense gratitude and a heart full of forgiveness that I issue this statement following our significant victory at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

“The Court, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, has reaffirmed our leadership by upholding the outcome of the Labour Party convention held in Nnewi, Anambra State, and consequently compelled INEC to give due recognition to the leadership of Barr. Julius Abure.

“This victory is not just mine, but a victory for justice and democracy. It confirms that the rule of law prevails and that our party’s leadership remains legitimate.

“For this, I must first and foremost thank Almighty God for guiding us through this challenging period.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the judiciary, particularly Justice Emeka Nwite, for his courage and integrity in delivering a judgment that upheld justice and resisted external pressures. His well-articulated judgment has restored our faith in the judiciary and given us hope for democracy in Nigeria.

“I must also appreciate Justice Omotosho of the Federal High Court, who had earlier validated the Labour Party’s convention held in Nnewi.

“His judgment became the foundation for other rulings, reflecting the strength and fairness of our judicial system.

“Additionally, Justice C. K. Nwankwo of the Abia High Court also deserves recognition for resisting pressure and avoiding granting a kangaroo interim and interlocutory orders against me and the party.

“Some individuals, whose names I choose not to mention, attempted to secure these orders but failed.

“These judges have set an admirable precedent for upholding justice in the face of adversity and huge inducement.

“They sought to restrain us, as National Executive Committee members of the party, from even speaking to the press. Thankfully, the courts technically avoided granting such orders and justice prevailed.”

The affirmed party chairman expressed confidence that the judgment marks the beginning of a new era for the Labour Party in Nigeria.

He acknowledged that the party will require restructuring and healing. Sharing his plans for the party, Abure said, “In the coming days, we will focus on rebuilding our structures, reconnecting with our grassroots, and uniting our members.

“We will heal old wounds and emerge stronger than ever before. With the collective efforts of all members, we will continue to fight for the interests of the common man and the betterment of Nigeria.

“I must also say clearly that I give kudos to and appreciate the judiciary for the work done so far. Their role in ensuring that justice prevails in the Labour Party leadership crisis has been invaluable.

“Finally, I would like to acknowledge and deeply appreciate the steadfastness of our members, supporters, and well-wishers who stood by the party during these trying times.

“Your unwavering belief in our cause has brought us to this moment, and together we will continue to work for a Labour Party that truly represents the hopes and aspirations of every Nigerian.

“Let this victory be the foundation upon which we shall build a stronger Labour Party, united in purpose and driven by the desire to serve the people of Nigeria.

“I also want to thank the judiciary once again for standing firm in the face of challenges, thereby renewing our faith in democracy and the future of Nigeria.”