Labour Party Announces May 23 for Presidential Primary and Suspends 26 Members
The Labour Party (LP) has officially designated May 23, 2026, as the date for its presidential primary election, a crucial step in preparation for the upcoming 2027 general elections. This decision was made during a statutory meeting of the party's National Executive Council (NEC), which convened on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. The meeting, held in the presence of officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), adhered strictly to the provisions of the Electoral Act and the commission's established guidelines.
Comprehensive Electoral Timetable Approved
According to a statement released by Ken Eluma Asogwa, the Senior Special Adviser (Media) to the Interim National Chairman, the NEC approved a detailed electoral timetable. The party is set to submit its membership register to INEC on April 15, 2026. Additionally, primaries for other key positions are scheduled as follows: governorship, Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly primaries will take place on May 15, 2026.
The NEC also ratified the schedule for internal congresses, with ward congresses planned for March 26, local government congresses on March 28, and state congresses on March 31. The party's national convention is expected to be held on April 11, 2026, marking a significant milestone in its organizational activities.
Disciplinary Actions and Suspensions
During the meeting, the NEC reviewed recent developments within the party, including what was described as the "unfortunate invasion" of the national secretariat by suspected hoodlums. These individuals were allegedly linked to some aggrieved members, prompting an investigation by the Peace, Reconciliation and Disciplinary Committee, chaired by Salisu Mohammed.
Following the committee's recommendations, the NEC invoked its disciplinary powers and approved the suspension of 26 members. The suspensions were based on allegations of anti-party activities, indiscipline, and complicity in the disruption of party operations. This move underscores the party's commitment to maintaining order and discipline within its ranks.
Leadership Aspirations and Party Rebuilding
In a related development, Dr. Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh, a former House of Representatives candidate for the Abakaliki/Izzi Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State on the LP platform, has formally declared his intention to contest for the position of national chairman. In a statement issued yesterday in Abakaliki, Ezeh pledged to restore sanity to the party and enhance its functionality.
Ezeh emphasized his commitment to repositioning the Labour Party as an inclusive, ideology-driven platform that caters to the aspirations of all Nigerians. He described his decision as driven by a "deep sense of responsibility" and a dedication to the party's growth. Acknowledging that the final decision on zoning the position rests with the party's leadership, Ezeh noted that his aspiration remains subject to the outcome of consultations within the NEC and other relevant organs.
His mission, as stated, is to rebuild the LP into a modern, dynamic, and inclusive political institution capable of attracting a broad spectrum of Nigerians, including entrepreneurs, professionals, business leaders, and the working class. This declaration highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen the party's structure and appeal ahead of the 2027 elections.
