Nigeria’s Labour Party has scheduled April 23 for the start of its long-delayed congresses, with a national convention set for April 28 in Umuahia, southeastern Abia state, as the party seeks to rebuild its structure ahead of the 2027 elections.
National Chairperson Nenadi Usman announced the new timetable in a television interview Wednesday, describing it as part of efforts to restore unity and strengthen internal democracy after months of disputes.
“We had to postpone it for about 20 days. We are starting on April 23, and our national convention is expected to be on April 28 in Umuahia,” she said.
Party officials said the choice of Umuahia is both symbolic and strategic, as it is the base of the party’s only serving governor, Alex Otti. The decision reflects the party’s intention to highlight its governance record while consolidating support in one of its strongest regions.
The congresses — spanning ward, local government and state levels — were previously delayed to allow for broader participation and to address internal disagreements.
Usman said the postponement formed part of a reconciliation process aimed at uniting factions within the party.
“Our strength is in coming back together and making peace among ourselves,” she said, calling on aggrieved members to return.
The Labour Party has faced internal challenges in recent months, including defections and legal disputes that have raised concerns about its cohesion.
Political analysts say the upcoming congresses and convention will serve as a key test of the party’s ability to stabilise and reposition itself as a viable opposition force ahead of the next general elections.
