Labour Party Announces May 23, 2027 for Presidential Primary
The Labour Party has officially scheduled its presidential primary for May 23, 2027, as part of comprehensive preparations for the upcoming general elections. This date was approved by the party's National Executive Council (NEC) during a statutory meeting held in Abuja, with oversight from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Detailed Election Timetable and Key Dates
In a statement released on Wednesday, Ken Asogwa, Senior Special Adviser (Media) to the Interim National Chairman, disclosed that the timetable aligns with the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines. The party has also fixed April 15, 2027 for the submission of its membership register to INEC. Additionally, primaries for governorship, Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly are set to hold on May 15, 2027.
The NEC ratified schedules for ward, local government, and state congresses, which are planned for March 26, March 28, and March 31, 2027, respectively. The party's national convention is scheduled for April 11, 2027.
Internal Developments and Disciplinary Actions
During the meeting, the NEC reviewed recent internal developments, including what was described as the "unfortunate invasion" of the party's national secretariat by hoodlums allegedly backed by rogue elements. Following this review, the party's Board of Trustees (BoT), acting on recommendations from its Peace, Reconciliation and Disciplinary Committee chaired by Salisu Mohammed, approved the suspension of some members.
The affected individuals were sanctioned over alleged indiscipline, anti-party activities, and involvement in the disruption at the party's headquarters. This move aims to maintain order and integrity within the party's ranks.
Strengthening Party Structure and Membership Expansion
As part of efforts to bolster its internal structure, the NEC approved the expansion of the party's membership register through a hybrid system. This initiative combines digital registration with manual enrolment in rural communities, aiming to modernise the party's database, enhance transparency, and deepen participatory democracy.
The council also directed that all vacant positions within the party be filled through interim appointments to ensure administrative continuity pending the conduct of substantive congresses. Members were urged to utilise the party's internal dispute resolution mechanisms to address grievances and promote unity.
Leadership Affirmation and Confidence Vote
The NEC welcomed a recent Federal High Court ruling that affirmed Senator Nenadi Usman as Interim National Chairman. The council passed a vote of confidence in her leadership, as well as in the Interim National Working Committee, the BoT, and key stakeholders including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and Abia State Governor Alex Otti.
Asogwa commended INEC for its prompt compliance with the court judgment, highlighting the importance of adherence to legal and electoral frameworks in the democratic process.
