Labour Party Delays Congresses and Zones 2027 Presidential Ticket to Southern Nigeria
In a strategic move aimed at internal restructuring ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Labour Party (LP) has announced the indefinite postponement of its scheduled congresses and national convention. Additionally, the party has made a significant decision to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the Southern region of Nigeria, signaling a major shift in its electoral strategy.
Postponement of Congresses and Convention
The party's leadership, through a statement by Ken Eluma Asogwa, Senior Special Assistant to the Interim National Chairman, revealed that all planned congresses have been suspended. This includes ward congresses originally set for March 26, 2026, local council congresses for March 28, state congresses for March 31, and the national convention scheduled for April 11, 2026. A new timetable will be announced later, as the party seeks more time to ensure a credible and inclusive electoral process.
The decision followed a joint stakeholders' meeting involving the Interim National Working Committee (NWC) and labour union representatives. It was resolved that additional time is necessary to allow for wider participation and to complete the ongoing membership re-registration exercise, which will serve as the foundation for the rescheduled congresses.
Formation of Oversight Committee
To manage the postponement and oversee preparations, a 45-member Congress and Convention Committee has been inaugurated. The committee is chaired by Ginger Onwusibe, who represents the Isiala Ngwa South/Isiala Ngwa North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Other notable members include Hon. Obinna Aguocha, Hon. Amaobi Ogah, Hon. Ibe Okwara, Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, Alozie Munachim Ikechi, Benedict Etanabene, Salisu N. Mohammed, Lawson Osagie, and Mrs Imaobong Ufot.
During the inauguration, National Chairman Nenadi Usman charged the committee to carry out their duties with diligence, fairness, and responsibility. She emphasized the need to use the extra time for thorough preparations to ensure smooth and hitch-free congresses and a successful national convention.
Appeal for Understanding and Strategic Zoning
The Labour Party has appealed for understanding from its members, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and supporters nationwide, assuring that a revised timetable will be communicated in due course. This postponement represents a key adjustment in the LP's internal roadmap as it aims to strengthen its organisational structure and manage its growing membership base.
In a related development, the party has zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, a move intended to balance regional representation and enhance electoral prospects. This decision underscores the party's commitment to strategic planning and inclusivity in its bid for national leadership.
Vote of Confidence from South-East Stakeholders
Meanwhile, stakeholders and chairmen of the Labour Party in the South-East have expressed strong support for Abia State Governor Alex Otti and his Deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu. In a communiqué presented to the deputy governor, they passed a vote of confidence, citing the leaders' dedication to party growth and visionary direction.
The communiqué, signed by key figures such as Chidiebere Darlington Anyanwu, Eze Oko Splendour, Dr Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh, Edozie Ezeugwa, Chuks A. Okolo, and Deacon Chuka Solomon Obaego, along with several state party chairmen, also reaffirmed confidence in the party's national leadership. This endorsement highlights regional solidarity and optimism within the LP as it navigates these internal changes.
