The Labour Party (LP) in Rivers State has indefinitely suspended its Caretaker Chairman, Hilda Dokubo, following multiple petitions accusing her of gross misconduct, extortion, and negligence.
Party Leaders Sign Suspension Letter
Dokubo’s suspension was initiated by Ward 3 in the Asari-Toru Local Government Area (ASALGA). A statement dated February 2, 2025, obtained by DAILY POST, revealed that the suspension letter was signed by key party officials, including O. C. Princewill (Chairman, Ward 3 ASALGA), Pastor Lucky Mac-Jaja Amachree (Vice Chairman), Florence Solomon (Secretary), and Iwowari George (Women Leader).
Calls for Investigation Into Allegations
The letter, addressed to the Labour Party’s National Chairman, called for an immediate investigation into Dokubo’s alleged misconduct.
Inflated Fees and Alleged Extortion
Dokubo is accused of unlawfully increasing fees for the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) screening and nomination forms during the recent local government elections. Councillorship aspirants reportedly paid N8,000 instead of N5,000, while chairmanship aspirants were charged N15,000 instead of N10,000, with the excess labeled as a “service charge.”
Accusations of Undermining Party Interest
Further allegations claim she negotiated party positions for personal benefit during her 2023 House of Representatives campaign and encouraged other Labour Party candidates to compromise their positions.
Mismanagement of Party Funds
Dokubo is also accused of misappropriating party funds, failing to provide proper financial accountability, and diverting resources for personal use.
“Divide and Rule” Leadership Style Criticized
The party leadership stated that under Dokubo’s tenure, Labour Party activities in Rivers State had stagnated due to her “divide and rule” approach, which allegedly weakened party structures for self-serving purposes.
Failure to Respond to Allegations
According to the statement, Dokubo repeatedly ignored invitations to address the allegations, leading to her indefinite suspension pending further investigation.
Dokubo Dismisses Suspension Claims
Reacting to the development, Dokubo denied the suspension, stating, “There was no suspension; some people were trying their luck.”
