By Peter Omopo
The Labour Party has announced May 23, 2026, as the date for its presidential primary ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The decision was reached during the party’s National Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday, where a comprehensive timetable for its primary elections was also unveiled.
According to the schedule, the party will submit its membership register to the Independent National Electoral Commission on April 15, 2026, while primaries for governorship, National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly are slated for May 15, 2026. The presidential primary will take place eight days later.
The council also approved timelines for internal party activities, including ward, local government and state congresses scheduled for March 26, 28 and 31 respectively, as well as the national convention fixed for April 11, 2026. The party described these steps as essential to strengthening internal democracy and preparing for the general elections.
Addressing recent internal tensions, the council reviewed reports of an invasion of the party’s national secretariat by suspected hoodlums allegedly linked to aggrieved members. Following deliberations, several members were suspended over alleged indiscipline, anti-party activities and involvement in the disruption.
The disciplinary actions were based on recommendations from the party’s Peace, Reconciliation and Disciplinary Committee, chaired by Salisu Mohammed, with the council stating that the measures were necessary to maintain order and uphold party principles.
The Labour Party also endorsed the ongoing update of its membership register through a hybrid system combining digital and manual processes. The initiative, according to the party, is aimed at improving data management, enhancing transparency and increasing participation, particularly at the grassroots level.
To ensure administrative continuity, the council empowered the party’s national leadership to fill existing vacancies through interim appointments pending the conduct of congresses. It also urged members to resolve disputes through internal mechanisms to promote unity.
Meanwhile, the council welcomed a recent Federal High Court ruling affirming Nenadi Usman as Interim National Chairman and passed a vote of confidence in her leadership, as well as in the party’s National Working Committee and Board of Trustees.
The party also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for complying with the court judgment, describing the move as a boost to democratic order and institutional integrity within its ranks.
