Interim National Chairman of the Labour Party, Senator Nenadi Usman, has reaffirmed her commitment to repositioning the party for greater success in the 2027 general elections. She made the pledge on Monday, August 18, 2025, while addressing participants at the Coalition for the Defence of Democracy’s (COPDEM) Virtual People’s Parliament programme, where she spoke on “Stabilizing the Labour Party: Challenges & Prospects.”
Usman recalled the party’s impressive performance in the 2023 polls, where it secured one governorship seat, eight senatorial seats, 34 House of Representatives seats, and numerous positions in state assemblies, describing it as a “loud testament to Nigerians’ desire for change.”
She, however, lamented the internal leadership crisis that followed, disclosing that attempts by a former national chairman to return to office despite his expired tenure caused disruptions. According to her, both the Supreme Court judgment of April 4, 2025, and a subsequent Federal High Court ruling on August 15, 2025, affirmed the expiration of his tenure and validated her leadership.
“The continued disobedience by a few individuals, aided by external forces, is not just an attack on the Labour Party but part of a broader attempt to weaken opposition parties in Nigeria,” Usman said.
Outlining the way forward, she announced that the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) has approved a strategic reform plan, which includes:
A nationwide membership registration and revalidation drive targeting 10 million new members.
Ward, local government, and state congresses, culminating in a national convention to elect substantive leadership before the end of 2025.
The Labour Party chairman also addressed the wave of defections by elected officials, admitting that inadequate screening of candidates during the 2023 elections contributed to the problem. She assured that going forward, only individuals aligned with the party’s philosophy would be allowed to contest under its platform.
“Labour Party will no longer be a stepping stone for opportunists, but a home for patriots committed to service and transformation,” she declared.
Despite challenges, Usman expressed confidence in the party’s resilience, insisting that ongoing reforms would ensure the Labour Party not only replicates but surpasses its 2023 successes. She called on members and supporters to remain actively engaged in strengthening the party.
“Beyond observation, I urge you all to dedicate yourselves to shaping the future of our party and country,” she said, while commending COPDEM for its support and advocacy.
