2027: Labour Party Zones Presidential Ticket to Southern Nigeria

The Labour Party (LP) has officially zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria, effectively excluding aspirants from the North from contesting under the party’s platform.

Senator Nenadi Usman, Chairman of the party’s National Caretaker Committee, announced the decision on Tuesday in Abuja following a consultative meeting with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Usman explained that the zoning decision is aimed at providing clarity for prospective aspirants ahead of the general elections.

“We have one certain decision that we have taken: we will certainly not field any aspirant from Northern Nigeria. The position is zoned to Southern Nigeria. So if any Northerner wants to contest, we certainly will not accept that,” she said.

However, Usman reassured that the party will adhere to democratic processes in selecting its candidate.

“As for who will ultimately contest, I cannot disclose that now. The aspirants will participate in primaries, and whoever emerges as the winner will take the position,” she added.

On the legal front, Usman confirmed that a High Court in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, dismissed a lawsuit challenging the legitimacy of the party’s National Caretaker Committee.

“The court found that the plaintiffs lacked standing. The case is now over, and we thank God for the judgment,” she said.

The LP chairman also hinted at a potential adjustment to the timetable for the party’s upcoming congresses, originally slated to begin on March 26. She cited the need to accommodate a growing number of new members joining the party.

“Sticking to the initial date could disenfranchise some members. We will discuss and set a new date that works for everyone,” Usman explained.

Additionally, the party has filed a petition with the Nigerian Police following a recent security breach involving LP property. Usman expressed confidence that authorities will investigate and hold the perpetrators accountable, stressing that the action is intended to deter political violence.