The Lagos State chapter of the Labour Party has plunged into internal turmoil following the suspension of its former Chairperson, Pastor Dayo Ekong, and other key officials over alleged misconduct and breach of party protocols.
In a statement released on Sunday, the newly appointed Caretaker Committee led by Rotimi Odunaike announced sweeping disciplinary measures, including the suspension of Ekong, former state Secretary Sam Okpala, and all former state executive committee members.
According to the statement, Ekong was sanctioned for allegedly violating the party’s constitution by simultaneously occupying two positions — state chairman and national financial secretary — a move deemed “a breach of internal regulations and gross misconduct.”
“The former state Chairperson, Pastor (Mrs) Dayo Ekong, is hereby suspended for six months for actions considered contrary to the party’s constitution and best practices,” Odunaike declared.
The committee also accused the suspended leadership of engaging in anti-party activities, citing failure to uphold constitutional tenets during their tenure.
In a further move to restructure its grassroots framework, the committee announced the immediate dissolution of all Local Government and Ward Executive Committees across Lagos State. Members of those bodies were also placed on six-month suspension.
“All ward and local government executives appointed under the previous leadership have been dissolved. Their suspension is with immediate effect, due to concerns over loyalty and adherence to party principles,” the statement read.
This latest development marks a significant escalation in the internal conflicts that have dogged the Lagos Labour Party since the end of the last electoral cycle. Party watchers say the reshuffle could have far-reaching implications ahead of the next election season, as the new leadership attempts to restore internal order and reassert control at the grassroots level.
