Abuja: The Labour Party (LP) Presidential Candidate, Dr. Chibuzor Okereke, has announced that his selection of Hajia Bintu Konto as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election is driven by merit, competence, and the necessity for an inclusive government. Okereke elaborated on this decision during his participation in the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Personality Interview Series in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Okereke emphasized that the Labour Party stands out with a female national chairman, vice-presidential candidate, legal adviser, and national organising secretary. He described this level of female representation as a testament to the foundational principles and philosophy of the Labour Party, which advocates for women’s leadership opportunities rather than suppression.
Okereke clarified that Konto’s nomination was not solely based on her gender. Her competence, capacity, and proven leadership as a public health specialist were pivotal factors in the decision-making process. He highlighted the importance of calculating political realities, ensuring geo-political balance, and considering individual qualities to deliver effective governance and leadership.
Okereke asserted that the decision to nominate Konto was rooted in the belief that excluding women, who make up nearly half of Nigeria’s population, is akin to “clapping with one hand.” He stressed that sidelining women equates to underutilizing valuable resources and hampers optimal functioning. Konto’s nomination is seen as a move towards achieving balance in qualifications, inclusion, capacity, and governance, complementing Okereke’s skills.
Okereke pointed out that scholars from northern Nigeria agree on the need to provide opportunities for women, especially those of the Muslim faith, to advance. He noted the low representation of women in northern Nigerian state Houses of Assembly, dominated by men, and emphasized the cultural and religious drive to unlock women’s potential.
Furthermore, Okereke expressed confidence that Konto’s nomination would inspire young women from the north, both Muslim and Christian, to view her as a role model. He praised her work in the development sector, where she has mobilized, organized, and impacted communities positively, suggesting that northern Nigerians are eager to empower her further.
Despite former Gov. Peter Obi’s departure from the Labour Party, Okereke assured that the party retains the six million-vote advantage it gained in 2023. As the presidential candidate, Okereke has inherited the party’s assets and liabilities and has resolved internal crises, maintaining the party’s strength.
Okereke, drawing from his experience as a former student union president, Senator of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and member of the Nigerian Youth Assembly, emphasized his strong connection with the youth who supported the party in 2023. He stated that the party intends to adopt the governance template of its national leader, Gov. Alex Otti of Abia, to replicate success at the national level and bring happiness to Nigerians.