Labour Party Deadlines May Shut Door on Obi’s 2027 Ambition — Nenadi Usman

Labour Party Deadlines May Shut Door on Obi’s 2027 Ambition — Nenadi Usman.

The Chairman of the Labour Party, Nenadi Usman, has stated that it may be too late for the party’s former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to return and contest under its platform ahead of the 2027 general election.

Usman made this known during an interview on Prime Time on Arise Television, where she explained that party procedures and electoral regulations could make it difficult for Obi to rejoin the party in time to participate in its primaries.

According to her, political parties are required to close their membership register ahead of primary elections and submit their electronic membership list to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). She stressed that once this process is completed, it becomes impossible to admit new members or allow late entrants to contest for party tickets.

“It will be too late, actually, for him to come back,” Usman said, noting that the party must close its register at least 21 days before primaries. “Once we close the register and submit the e-register to INEC, you cannot come from behind the door for us to register you and for you to contest.”

Despite her remarks, Usman acknowledged the significant role Obi played in strengthening the Labour Party ahead of the last general election. She credited him with attracting widespread support and convincing many Nigerians, including herself, to join the party in pursuit of equity and fairness in Nigeria’s political system.

She explained that her decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and join the Labour Party was influenced by dissatisfaction with the PDP’s zoning arrangement at the time. According to her, the decision not to zone the presidential ticket to the southern region was viewed by many as unfair, prompting several politicians to seek alternative platforms.

Looking ahead, Usman said the Labour Party intends to refocus on its founding principles of social justice, fairness, and equal opportunity. She highlighted the performance of Alex Otti, Governor of Abia State, describing him as a strong example of the party’s ideology in action. She referred to Otti as an “ambassador” of the party, noting that he remains its only serving governor and has demonstrated leadership aligned with its values.

Usman also called on Nigerians, particularly activists, civil society members, and labour unionists, to actively participate in politics rather than remain on the sidelines. She emphasized that meaningful change can only be achieved through direct involvement in the electoral process.

Her remarks underscore growing discussions about the future of the Labour Party and the political path of Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 elections, while reinforcing the party’s position that strict adherence to electoral timelines may ultimately determine whether Obi can return to contest under its platform.