LP Fixes May 23, 2026 for Presidential Primaries Ahead of 2027 Polls

The Labour Party (LP) has scheduled May 23, 2026, for its presidential primaries as part of early preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The decision was announced in a communiqué issued after the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja, which was monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

According to the timetable approved by NEC, the party will submit its membership register on April 15, while primaries for governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly positions are slated for May 15.

The council also ratified actions taken by the party’s leadership under Senators Nenadi Usman and Darlington Nwochocha. These include the conduct of ward, local government, and state congresses scheduled for March 26, 28, and 31, respectively, as well as the national convention fixed for April 11.

NEC reviewed recent developments within the party, particularly the invasion of its national secretariat by suspected hoodlums, allegedly backed by “rogue elements,” describing the incident as a grave violation of party order.

“Following a detailed review of the report and recommendations of the Peace, Reconciliation and Disciplinary Committee,” the communiqué stated, “NEC exercised its disciplinary authority and approved the suspension of members involved in acts of indiscipline, anti-party activities, and complicity in the desecration of the party’s national secretariat.”

The party further disclosed plans to expand its membership register through a hybrid system that combines digital and manual processes. It noted that the initiative is aimed at modernising its database, strengthening internal democracy, and improving transparency and efficiency in line with the Electoral Act 2026.

To maintain continuity, NEC resolved that all existing vacancies within party structures would be filled through interim appointments. It added that such positions would be occupied in an acting capacity pending the conduct of substantive congresses.

The council also urged members to adopt internal dispute resolution mechanisms to safeguard unity as the party intensifies preparations for the 2027 elections.