POLITICS
Gov. Alex Otti Chairs Landmark Labour Party NEC Meeting in Abuja, Announces Nationwide Congresses, Membership Revalidation and Reconciliation Drive Ahead of 2026 Political Rebirth
The Executive Governor of Abia State and leader of the Labour Party, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, on Friday, January 31, presided over a crucial joint meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the Interim National Committee of the Labour Party in Abuja, in what has been widely described as a major step towards rebuilding and repositioning the party at all levels.
The high-level meeting brought together key leaders and stakeholders of the party to deliberate on the future direction of the Labour Party, address internal challenges, and set a clear roadmap for strengthening its internal democracy and organisational structure nationwide.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, Governor Otti expressed appreciation to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for recognising the Interim National Committee of the party and for uploading the names of its leadership on the commission’s official website in compliance with subsisting court orders. He described the development as a significant milestone that affirms the legality and legitimacy of the current party leadership.
The Governor disclosed that the NEC and the Interim National Committee unanimously resolved to commence a comprehensive process of rebuilding the party through the conduct of congresses across the country.
According to him, a detailed timetable will be drawn up for congresses at the ward, local government, state, zonal and national levels, with the entire process culminating in a National Convention. The congresses are scheduled to begin in March 2026.
In addition, the party resolved to embark on a nationwide revalidation of existing members and registration of new members, as part of efforts to strengthen its grassroots base and expand its membership. A special committee has been constituted to oversee and drive the revalidation and registration exercise.
Governor Otti further announced the establishment of a reconciliation committee tasked with reaching out to aggrieved members and factions who are willing to return to the party. He emphasised that the door of the Labour Party remains open to all genuine stakeholders who desire unity and progress, and called for an end to hostilities within the party family in the interest of collective growth.
He also extended an appeal to Barrister Julius Abure and his associates to lay down their arms and rejoin the party’s mainstream, stressing that unity and dialogue remain the best pathways to building a formidable political platform.
The Governor revealed that the national leadership of the party at its highest level regretted the exit of the party’s former leader and presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, and wished him well in his future political endeavours. He noted, however, that the party is determined to close ranks and emerge stronger, more united and better organised.
The NEC acknowledged that the party has suffered some losses, including the departure of certain members elected on its platform into the National Assembly, as well as changes involving some caretaker committee officials. Despite these setbacks, the party leadership maintained that the Labour Party remains resilient, vibrant and capable of reinventing itself.
Governor Otti also disclosed that due to prevailing circumstances, the Labour Party would not be participating as a party in the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) election.
Reaffirming his confidence in the future of the party, Governor Otti thanked members, supporters and Nigerians who have continued to stand with the Labour Party through challenging times. He assured them that ongoing reforms and restructuring efforts will produce a stronger, more cohesive and more competitive party that is well-positioned to offer credible leadership and alternative governance to Nigerians.
He concluded by calling on Nigerians who share the ideals of good governance, accountability and people-oriented leadership to join the Labour Party as it embarks on a new phase of renewal and consolidation.