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).
Key Dates and Electoral Timetable
In a statement released on Wednesday, Ken Asogwa, Senior Special Adviser (Media) to the Interim National Chairman, confirmed that the timetable aligns with the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines. The party has set April 15 for submitting its membership register to INEC. Additionally, primaries for governorship, Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly will be held on May 15.
Asogwa further detailed that the NEC ratified schedules for ward, local government, and state congresses, scheduled for March 26, March 28, and March 31, respectively. The party's national convention is slated for April 11.
Internal Developments and Disciplinary Actions
The NEC, as the highest decision-making organ after the national convention, reviewed recent internal issues, including an unfortunate invasion of the national secretariat by hoodlums allegedly supported by rogue elements. Following this review, the Board of Trustees (BoT) acted on recommendations from the Peace, Reconciliation and Disciplinary Committee, chaired by Salisu Mohammed, approving the suspension of several members.
These individuals faced sanctions due to alleged indiscipline, anti-party activities, and involvement in disruptions at the party headquarters. This move aims to uphold party discipline and integrity.
Strengthening Party Structure and Initiatives
To enhance its internal framework, the NEC approved expanding the party's membership register through a hybrid system that combines digital registration with manual enrolment in rural communities. Asogwa noted that this initiative is designed to modernize the party's database, boost transparency, and foster participatory democracy.
The council also directed that all vacant positions within the party be filled via interim appointments to ensure administrative continuity until substantive congresses are conducted. Members were encouraged to use 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. A vote of confidence was passed in her leadership, as well as in the Interim National Working Committee, the BoT, and key stakeholders such as 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 processes in electoral matters.
