In moves that underscore a significant internal reorganisation ahead of the 2027 general election, the Labour Party (LP) has announced the postponement of its scheduled congresses and national convention, alongside a major strategic decision to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South.

In a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the Interim National Chairman, Ken Eluma Asogwa, the ward congresses, earlier slated for March 26, 2026, local council congresses scheduled for March 28, state congresses fixed for March 31, and the national convention billed for April 11, 2026, have all been suspended indefinitely pending a new timetable.

The decision followed a joint stakeholders’ meeting involving members of the Interim National Working Committee (NWC) and representatives of labour unions, where it was resolved that more time was needed to ensure inclusiveness, credibility, and wider participation in the party’s internal electoral process.

The leadership explained that the postponement would allow both existing members and new entrants adequate opportunity to complete the ongoing membership re-registration exercise, which is expected to serve as the foundation for the forthcoming congresses.

As part of efforts to reposition the party and ensure a seamless process, a 45-member Congress and Convention Committee was inaugurated to oversee preparations for the rescheduled exercises. The committee is chaired by Ginger Onwusibe, representing Isiala Ngwa South/Isiala Ngwa North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Other members of the committee include Hon. Obinna Aguocha, Hon. Amaobi Ogah, Hon. Ibe Okwara, Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, Alozie Munachim Ikechi, Benedict Etanabene, Salisu N. Mohammed, Lawson Osagie, Mrs Imaobong Ufot, among others.

In her remarks at the inauguration, the National Chairman of the Labour Party, Nenadi Usman, charged the committee members to carry out their assignments with diligence, fairness, and a strong sense of responsibility. She urged them to make use of the additional time to ensure thorough preparations for hitch-free congresses and a smooth national convention.

The party also appealed for understanding from its members, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and supporters nationwide, assuring that a revised timetable will be communicated in due course.

The postponement represents a key adjustment in the LP’s internal roadmap as it seeks to strengthen its organisational structure and manage its expanding membership base.

MEANWHILE, stakeholders and chairmen of the LP in the South-East have passed a vote of confidence on the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, and his Deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, citing their leadership and commitment to the growth of the party.

The position was contained in a communiqué presented to the deputy governor, in which the stakeholders expressed appreciation to the Abia State leadership for what they described as tireless efforts to strengthen the party and provide visionary direction.

In the communiqué, which was signed by key stakeholders across the region, including Chidiebere Darlington Anyanwu, Eze Oko Splendour, Dr Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh, Edozie Ezeugwa, Chuks A. Okolo, Deacon Chuka Solomon Obaego, and several state party chairmen. The stakeholders also reaffirmed confidence in the party’s national leadership.