The National caretaker chairman of the Labour Party Senator Nenadi Usman, as affirmed by the Federal High Court, Abuja has expressed the confidence that the party is entering a new chapter despite the exit of its former Presidential Candidate Peter Obi who has joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
She insisted that the party is far from weakened and remains a credible national alternative for 2027.
“The court ruling confirming our caretaker committee gave us legal authority, but more importantly, it gave us momentum,” Usman told ARISE TV Primetime.
“We have seen former members return and new supporters join. That tells me Nigerians still believe in the Labour Party and what it stands for.”
Usman emphasised that the party’s strength lies in its nationwide grassroots structure and institutional ties. “Labour Party has representation across almost every polling unit through teachers, nurses, and retired civil servants. With our connections to the NLC and TUC, if we mobilise properly, we can be one of the strongest parties in Nigeria,” she said.
She noted that the party’s setbacks in the 2023 elections were not a reflection of its structure, but rather of underutilised institutional support. “The NLC and TUC were not carried along as they should have been. That is changing now,” she added.
Southern Leadership for 2027
Looking ahead, Usman revealed that the party intends to zone its presidential ticket to the South in 2027. “We have brilliant leaders in the South who can take the party forward. The ideology of social justice remains central, and we want a candidate who embodies that vision,” she said.
Acknowledging that rival factions led by Julius Abure have vowed to appeal the court ruling, Usman said she is committed to unity. “I have extended an olive branch. Labour Party is bigger than any one individual. We must walk together, and I believe the judiciary will act fairly,” she said.
She stressed that internal democracy will remain a priority. “A political party is for the people. Our role is to ensure everyone has the opportunity to present themselves and be elected fairly. We will not lock anyone out,” Usman said.
Reflecting on Obi’s exit, Usman framed it as both a challenge and an opportunity. “Peter Obi was important, but Labour Party is more than one person. Nigeria has brilliant people who can step up, and we will continue to provide a platform for those who believe in social justice,” she said.
She also addressed speculation about coalitions or mergers with other opposition parties, stating that such decisions will be taken collectively. “One person cannot decide the party’s future alone. We are focused on strengthening Labour Party first,” she said.
For Usman, Labour Party’s mission remains unchanged: to serve the downtrodden and provide a credible platform for Nigerians who feel unheard. “This party is for the people. We will rebuild it the right way and make it a force for social justice in Nigeria,” she said.
With a legal mandate in hand, growing support, and a clear vision for 2027, Usman insists Labour Party is ready to turn its internal reset into a competitive force for the next election. “We have a responsibility to get it right, and I will not let our members down,” she said.