The Labour Party has called for unity among its members and warned against internal divisions as it intensifies preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, represented by his Deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, said internal disagreements must not be allowed to weaken the party.
“Elections within the party should never create permanent divisions. The contest is over; the assignment has just begun,” he said.
He warned that opponents would seek to exploit any form of disunity and urged members to close ranks.
“Our opponents will seek to exploit divisions among us. We must not give them the opportunity,” he added.
Governor Otti called on successful candidates to reach out to other aspirants and promote reconciliation within the party.
“We must bring everyone to the table and harness the strength, experience, and networks of all those who participated,” he said.
He stressed that candidates must see themselves as ambassadors of hope and agents of change.
“You must therefore see yourselves not merely as candidates, but as ambassadors of hope and agents of change,” he stated.
He further urged coordinated campaigns, noting that no candidate can succeed in isolation.
“We must speak with one voice and mobilize collectively,” he added.
In her remarks, the National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, said the NEC meeting was to consolidate the outcome of successful nationwide primaries.
She thanked members for their commitment and called for reconciliation.
“We should all sheath our swords and continue working together for the growth of our party,” she said.
She emphasized that the Labour Party belongs to all members and is focused on winning elections through unity and inclusion.
The National Secretary, Iheabacho Obioma, presented the official report of the 2026 primaries, confirming compliance with constitutional provisions, the Electoral Act, and INEC guidelines.
He said the exercise produced candidates for presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly positions after largely peaceful and transparent processes.
The NEC is expected to ratify the report and transmit the final list to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Dr. Chibuzo Okereke, then formally accepted his nomination, thanking the party leadership for the confidence reposed in him.
He expressed gratitude to Dr. Alex Otti, Senator Nenadi Usman, the NWC, NEC, and party members across Nigeria and in the diaspora.
“I accept this nomination with full understanding of the weight of responsibility it carries,” he said.
Dr. Okereke described the Labour Party as a platform for workers, professionals, and ordinary Nigerians, anchored on social justice and democratic principles.
He unveiled his “Nigerians First” agenda, stressing that governance must prioritize citizens over politics and focus on human development.
He also introduced his “Believe Again” message, urging Nigerians to restore confidence in the country and its institutions.
The candidate proposed reforms in education, healthcare, agriculture, NYSC, and national reconciliation, including a National Day of Peace and Forgiveness.
He urged Nigerians across all sectors to believe in the nation’s future and reaffirmed his commitment to service.
The NEC will now deliberate on ratification of candidates ahead of submission to INEC in line with electoral requirements.
