…As Gov Otti Calls For Reconciliation
The Labour Party has formally confirmed Nenadi Usman as its substantive national chairman, consolidating its leadership structure as the party begins early preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Usman’s emergence was ratified on Tuesday at the party’s national elective convention held in Umuahia, where delegates endorsed a new National Working Committee through a consensus-based process designed to minimise internal divisions.
Alongside Usman, the convention produced Iheanacho Obioma as national secretary and Hilda Dokubo as national women leader, among other key officials.
Party leaders said the adoption of consensus and affirmation voting reflected a strategic effort to stabilise the party after months of internal tensions, while projecting a united front ahead of critical electoral activities.
In her acceptance speech, Usman pledged to justify the confidence reposed in her, while promising to strengthen party structures and deepen internal democracy.
Usman emphasised that her leadership would focus on inclusiveness, organisational discipline, and grassroots mobilisation, describing the task ahead as one that requires collective commitment.
She also highlighted the symbolic importance of her election, noting that it reflects a gradual shift toward greater female representation in Nigeria’s political leadership space.
The new LP Chairman called on party members to work together in rebuilding trust and positioning the party as a credible alternative in the country’s political landscape.
Speaking at the convention, Alex Otti commended members of the convention committee led by Ginger Onwusibe for organising what he described as a credible and orderly event.
Otti tasked the newly elected NWC to place premium on reconciliation and expand the party’s base, warning that internal cohesion would be decisive in determining its electoral fortunes.
The Abia Governor stressed that the leadership must immediately begin efforts to reintegrate aggrieved members and build consensus across different blocs within the party.
According to him, “politics is ultimately about numbers,” adding that the Labour Party must broaden its appeal and avoid alienating key stakeholders, if it hopes to remain competitive on the national stage.
The governor also challenged the new leadership to pursue a transparent and conflict-free primary process, noting that disputes arising from candidate selection have historically weakened political parties ahead of general elections.
The convention hopefully marks an end to the lingering crisis that has rocked the party, as its focus now shifts to consolidating on the gains of 2023 general elections while trying to finally resolve the case at the Supreme Court by Julius Abure laying claims to the rightful headship of the party.
