Labour Party sets May 23 for presidential primary

Nigeria’s Labour Party has fixed May 23, 2026, as the date for its presidential primary election, setting the stage for early preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The decision was reached during a statutory meeting of the party’s National Executive Council (NEC), which was monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission, according to a statement issued in Abuja by Ken Asogwa, Senior Special Adviser (Media) to the party’s interim national chairman.

The party also approved April 15 as the deadline for the submission of its membership register to INEC, in line with provisions of the Electoral Act and regulatory guidelines. Other key dates in the timetable include May 15 for governorship, National Assembly, and state assembly primaries, as well as April 11 for the party’s national convention.

In addition, the NEC ratified the schedule for grassroots congresses, with ward, local government, and state congresses set to hold on March 26, March 28, and March 31, respectively.

The series of activities signals an attempt by the party to consolidate its internal structures and streamline its electoral processes well ahead of the next election cycle.

Internal restructuring, disputes shape party’s preparations

Beyond setting its electoral timetable, the NEC reviewed recent internal developments within the party, including leadership disputes and disciplinary actions.

According to the statement, the party’s Board of Trustees (BOT) approved the suspension of some members accused of indiscipline, anti-party activities, and involvement in the disruption of the party’s national secretariat. The move followed recommendations from a peace, reconciliation, and disciplinary committee set up to address internal conflicts.

The NEC also passed a vote of confidence in the leadership of Senator Nenadi Usman as interim national chairman, alongside the Interim National Working Committee and other key stakeholders.

The council further endorsed the use of interim appointments to fill existing vacancies within party structures, pending the conduct of substantive congresses. Party leaders said this approach is intended to ensure continuity in administration while longer-term leadership processes are concluded.

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Members were also urged to resolve grievances through internal mechanisms, a move seen as part of broader efforts to stabilise the party and prevent further factional disputes ahead of the primaries.

Digital membership drive, reforms aim to strengthen structure

As part of its restructuring efforts, the Labour Party announced the expansion of its membership register through a hybrid system combining digital and manual registration processes.

The initiative is designed to modernise the party’s database, improve transparency, and enhance participation, particularly in rural communities where access to digital tools may be limited.

Party officials said the adoption of electronic registration aligns with evolving political practices and reflects a push toward more efficient data management systems. It also mirrors broader electoral reforms in Nigeria, where technology is increasingly being deployed to strengthen credibility and reduce irregularities.

The NEC commended INEC for its compliance with recent court rulings affecting the party’s leadership structure, noting that regulatory cooperation remains essential for a smooth electoral process.

With its timetable now set, the Labour Party joins other political stakeholders in ramping up preparations for 2027. However, the success of its early start may depend not only on adherence to its schedule but also on its ability to resolve internal disputes and build a unified front.

As Nigeria gradually shifts attention toward the next election cycle, the party’s internal cohesion, candidate selection process, and organisational reforms are likely to play a decisive role in shaping its competitiveness on the national stage.