Labour Party Releases Statement On Indicted and Expelled Former Chairman Alhaji A.A. SalamWe are baffled by the media reports credited to the chief press secretary to the Hon INEC Chairman Mr Rotimi Lawrence that misrepresented the list of Labour Party NWC that emerged at the 2014 Convention as a recognition to the suspended party chairman Alhaji A A Salam by INEC. Alhaji A A Salam was removed from office for embezzlement and diversion of party funds.

Following a petition to the NWC by Dr Chris Enemuo LP governorship aspirant (now candidate) in the Anambra State Gubernatorial Election , the NWC agreed to convene meetings of the Party organs. A disciplinary committee was set up to look into the petition and to give both Alhaji A A Salam and the treasurer Ms Oluchi Opara an opportunity to respond to the petition. It is on record that they both refused and neglected to appear before the committee .

The NWC and NEC endorsed the special Convention where Dr Mike Omotosho emerged as the new chairman and INEC was given proper notice.

INEC witnessed the convention and is yet to issue a report on the Convention. It is important to state that all actions taken by the party to expel Alhaji A A Salam were taken in line with the provisions of the Labour Party 2009 Constitution . Article 17 : Removal from office ; The National Chairman of the party may be suspended or removed from office on a vote of no confidence passed by at least two thirds majority at a National Convention convened solely for the consideration only of such motion. And Article 19: Party discipline.; All members of the Labour Party must maintain a commendable and exemplary level of discipline in both their public and private lives and conduct. Having regard to the fact that a substantial attraction of the party is derived from the element of moral authority, the party will impose disciplinary measures for any misdemeanor aimed at tarnishing its well nurtured image and credibility.

The list released by INEC showing the working committee as per the 2014 Convention remains intact devoid of factions excluding only Alhaji A A Salam and Ms. Oluchi Opara who were removed for the high crimes of embezzlement and diversion of party funds. The Police has already released an interim report to confirm the crimes.

Signed.

Ebere Ifendu

National Publicity Secretary.

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