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The interim National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Senator Nenadi Usman, has firmly stated that Mr. Peter Obi, the party's 2023 presidential candidate, cannot rejoin the Labour Party or contest the 2027 general elections on its platform.Senator Usman made the declaration while addressing the implications of the Electoral Act regarding membership registration and the closure of the party’s membership register.
She explained that once the register is closed particularly 21 days before primaries and the electronic register is submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), no new registrations or returns can be accommodated from the back door.“It is too late for him to come back because if you look at the Act now, at some point we close the register,” Senator Usman said. “Once we close the register 21 days before primaries, according to the Electoral Act, and submit the e-register, you cannot come from the back door for registration.”The position comes amid ongoing speculation about political realignments and possible returns by major opposition figures ahead of the 2027 polls.
The Labour Party leadership, under Senator Usman, is focused on completing its internal reorganization, including membership revalidation, ward-to-zonal congresses, and strengthening structures nationwide.The party reiterated its commitment to fielding credible candidates who fully align with its ideals of social justice, good governance, and people-centered policies.
It urged supporters and members to channel their energy into grassroots mobilization and the party’s rebuilding efforts rather than individual personalities.
Senator Usman emphasized that the Labour Party is bigger than any single individual and remains open to like-minded Nigerians who share its vision, while adhering strictly to legal and constitutional requirements.