The Labour Party has scheduled April 23 for the start of its ward, local government and state congresses, while its national convention will hold on April 28 in Umuahia as part of efforts to rebuild the party and prepare for the 2027 general elections.
National Chairman Nenadi Usman announced the timetable during a television interview on Wednesday, explaining that the exercise had earlier been delayed by more than 20 days to allow wider participation and resolve internal disagreements.
According to her, the choice of Umuahia is both symbolic and strategic because it is the home city of the party’s only serving governor, Alex Otti.
Usman said the party wants to use the convention to celebrate Otti’s performance in office and strengthen support in one of its strongest political bases.
She added that the postponement of the congresses formed part of a broader reconciliation process aimed at restoring unity within the party after months of internal crisis.
“Our strength is in coming back together and making peace among ourselves,” she said, noting that the leadership is extending an olive branch to aggrieved members.
The party has in recent months faced a series of challenges, including defections and legal disputes, among them the exit of former presidential candidate Peter Obi.
Despite the setbacks, Usman insisted that the party remains strong internally and is becoming more organised ahead of future elections.
She also confirmed that the party will adopt a direct primary system for selecting its presidential candidate, saying the ticket would go to whoever is chosen directly by party members.
The Labour Party further ruled out any immediate coalition talks, with Usman stressing that the focus remains on internal reforms and organisational stability.
Political observers see the convention in Umuahia as a major test of the party’s ability to overcome internal divisions and reposition itself as a viable force ahead of the 2027 elections.