The Labour Party (LP) has publicly distanced itself from Abayomi Arabambi over his legal action challenging the academic records of former presidential candidate Peter Obi, insisting that Arabambi is no longer a member of the party and lacks the authority to speak or act on its behalf.
The party made the clarification in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Eluma Asogwa, following reports that described Arabambi as a Labour Party chieftain after he instituted a lawsuit involving the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), over Obi’s academic credentials.
According to the party, it initially chose not to react when news of the lawsuit surfaced on social media, believing that responding would only amplify what it described as attempts by certain individuals to gain attention. However, the LP said it became necessary to set the record straight after mainstream media reports continued to identify Arabambi as one of its leaders.
The party stressed that while it would not comment on the substance of the case because it is currently before the courts, the public should be aware that Arabambi ceased to be a member of the Labour Party months ago. It explained that on March 18, 2026, the National Executive Council suspended 25 members over allegations of anti-party activities, with Arabambi among those affected.
The suspension, LP noted, was subsequently ratified during the party’s National Convention held on April 28, 2026, effectively terminating the membership of those involved. Consequently, the party maintained that any claim by Arabambi to represent the Labour Party in any capacity is unauthorized.
The statement further warned that presenting himself as a Labour Party chieftain or representative could amount to impersonation. The party disclosed that its legal team is currently reviewing the matter and may take further action if necessary.
The development comes amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Peter Obi having since moved on from the Labour Party. Nonetheless, the party said it remains committed to protecting its image and ensuring that individuals who are no longer members do not misrepresent themselves as speaking on its behalf.
