Nigeria: Labour Party slams door on Peter Obi’s possible return

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

The Labour Party has indicated that it might be too late for former presidential candidate Peter Obi to return to the party and contest under its platform in the 2027 election. Chairman Nenadi Usman cited electoral guidelines and party procedures as limiting factors, stating that the party’s register has already been closed and submitted to INEC.

Speaking on Arise Television, Usman acknowledged Obi’s significant role in boosting the party’s profile during the last general election, admitting that no current member commands similar political momentum. She explained that her decision to join the party was influenced by her dissatisfaction with the Peoples Democratic Party’s zoning arrangement.

Usman outlined the party’s future direction, stating that Labour Party would refocus on its founding ideals of social justice and equal opportunity, pointing to Governor Alex Otti of Abia State as a model. She urged Nigerians to participate actively in the political process, saying, “If you think you’re an activist, you have something to offer Nigeria, come contest elections… because you cannot change from outside.