Abuja: The Labour Party (LP) has thrown open its presidential ticket to all qualified members in anticipation of the 2027 general elections, expressing strong support for its newly formed National Working Committee (NWC). Dr. Alex Otti, the Governor of Abia and National Leader of the party, made this announcement in Abuja following the inaugural meeting of the NWC.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the fresh leadership emerged from the party’s recent national convention and is seen as having the necessary backing and capacity to revitalize the party. Otti extended his congratulations to the National Chairman, Sen. Nenadi Usman, and the 13-member committee, highlighting the unity and commitment evident from the high attendance at the meeting.
Otti emphasized the party’s dedication to enhancing its internal processes, such as primaries and voting procedures, in preparation for upcoming elections. Addressing concerns about internal divisions, he noted that the convention’s results illustrated widespread participation, with over 25 state chairmen, including some from previous leadership structures, in attendance. This, according to him, indicates the party’s progress in overcoming challenges and fostering unity.
On the subject of the 2027 presidential race, Otti assured that the party would ensure a fair playing field for all aspirants. He clarified that any member fulfilling the party’s requirements would be granted the opportunity to run, emphasizing that democracy allows for open competition.
Dr. Otti also outlined the conditions for aspirants, including party membership and financial status, stressing that no qualified member would be excluded. He rejected speculations about political alignments and external influence, affirming that all registered parties, including the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), would continue to function within the democratic framework.
The party’s national leader reaffirmed LP’s commitment to internal democracy and inclusiveness as it positions itself for the next electoral period. The News Agency of Nigeria further reports that Sen. Usman was elected National Chairman at the party’s national convention held in Umuahia, Abia. Her election marks her as the first woman to hold the position of National Chairman in a Nigerian political party.