The Labour Party has announced May 23, 2026, as the date for its presidential primary ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The decision was reached during a statutory meeting of the party’s National Executive Council, which was monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
This was disclosed in a statement by Ken Asogwa, media aide to the party’s interim leadership, who said the date forms part of a broader timetable guiding the party’s primary elections.
According to the schedule, governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly primaries will take place on May 15, while April 15 has been set as the deadline for submission of the party’s membership register to INEC.
The party’s national convention is slated for April 11.
The NEC also ratified earlier congresses at ward, local government, and state levels, scheduled for March 26, March 28, and March 31, respectively.
Addressing internal matters, the council condemned the recent invasion of the party’s national secretariat, describing it as the handiwork of disruptive elements.
Following recommendations from its disciplinary committee, some members were suspended over alleged anti-party activities and misconduct.
The party further announced plans to expand its membership base through a hybrid registration system, combining digital and manual processes, particularly targeting rural communities to improve participation and transparency.
In addition, NEC approved the appointment of interim leaders to fill existing vacancies within party structures, pending the conduct of substantive congresses.
Members were also encouraged to resolve disputes through internal mechanisms to foster unity.
The council reaffirmed its confidence in the interim leadership of Nenadi Usman as National Chairman, alongside key stakeholders including Alex Otti.
The party also commended INEC for complying with a recent court ruling affirming its leadership structure, as it intensifies preparations for the 2027 elections.
