Otti Urges Unity as Labour Party Ratifies 1,211 Candidates for 2027

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has called for unity and reconciliation within the Labour Party after the ratification of 1,211 candidates for various elective positions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Thursday urged members of the Labour Party to close ranks and work together following the conclusion of the party’s nationwide primaries, warning that internal divisions could weaken its chances in the 2027 elections. The appeal was made at the party’s National Executive Council meeting in Abuja, where the Labour Party formally ratified 1,211 candidates, including Dr Chibuzo Okereke as its presidential candidate.

Represented by his deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, Otti said party contests should not create lasting divisions, stressing that the focus must now shift from internal competition to collective mobilisation. He urged successful aspirants to reconcile with other contestants and bring everyone on board to strengthen the party’s structure ahead of the polls.

The governor said candidates must see themselves as ambassadors of hope and agents of change, adding that the party must speak with one voice if it hopes to mount a strong challenge in 2027. His remarks come amid lingering internal disputes within the party, with leaders at the NEC meeting insisting that reconciliation remains key to its electoral prospects.

Also speaking at the meeting, Labour Party National Chairman Nenadi Usman appealed to aggrieved members to put aside their grievances and work for the growth of the party. She said disagreements were inevitable in any political organisation, but insisted that unity and reconciliation were necessary to expand the party and improve its chances at the polls.

Presenting the report of the primaries, National Secretary and NEC Secretary, Hon. Iheanacho Obioma, said the elections were held on May 30 across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory in line with the Constitution, the Electoral Act 2026, the party’s constitution and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission. He added that the party carried out a nationwide digital membership registration and revalidation exercise before conducting the primaries.

Meanwhile, presidential candidate Chibuzo Okereke accepted his nomination and pledged to lead a people-focused campaign. He described the Labour Party as a platform built on social justice and democratic ideals, and unveiled a “Nigerians First” agenda alongside a “Believe Again” message aimed at restoring public confidence in the country and its institutions.