The Labour Party(LP) has used Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary to make a fresh case for its 2027 candidates, presenting Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, as an example of the kind of leadership it says Nigerians should consider at the polls.
The party made the pitch in an Independence Day statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Eluma Asogwa, on Wednesday.
The Labour Party acknowledged that Nigeria had recorded “many missed opportunities and unfulfilled expectations” in the 66 years since independence, but said the country’s survival as one nation remained a reason for hope.
It said Nigerians were currently facing serious economic and security challenges, which it attributed partly to years of ineffective leadership and governance.
The party, however, urged citizens not to lose hope or become resigned to the difficulties confronting the country.
“There will surely be joy in the morning,” it said, stressing that citizens must continue to demand accountability from those in authority.
The party said meaningful change would require active participation by Nigerians, arguing that resignation and despair could not produce the leadership needed to address the country’s challenges.
Against that backdrop, the Labour Party shifted its Independence message towards the 2027 elections, urging Nigerians to consider its candidates for elective positions from the presidency to the state assemblies.
It specifically cited Otti’s administration in Abia State as what it described as evidence of the party’s commitment to translating its promises into governance.
The party described Otti as “our pride and a role model in true leadership,” saying his administration had given Nigerians seeking change a reason to consider Labour Party candidates in the coming elections.
The Labour Party also called on those holding public office to govern with empathy, justice and transparency, arguing that national development must place the welfare and wellbeing of citizens at the centre.
As Nigeria marked 66 years of independence, the party reaffirmed its confidence in the Nigerian people and the country’s capacity to overcome its present challenges and realise its potential.
It concluded its anniversary message by wishing Nigerians a happy Independence anniversary.
