LP Remains Strong Despite Obi’s Exit, Says Usman

CHAIRPERSON of Labour Party’s (LP) National Caretaker Committee, Nenadi Usman, whose leadership was recently affirmed by the Federal High Court in Abuja, said the party was entering a new chapter, despite the exit of its former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Speaking on a television programme, Usman insisted that LP was not weakened, but remained a credible national alternative for the 2027 general election, adding: “The court ruling confirming our caretaker committee gave us legal authority, but more importantly, it gave us momentum.
“We have seen former members return and new supporters join. That tells me Nigerians still believe in the Labour Party and what it stands for.”
The former senator stressed that the party’s strength lies in its nationwide grassroots structure and institutional ties, noting: “Labour Party has representation across almost every polling unit through teachers, nurses and retired civil servants.
“With our connections to the NLC and TUC, if we mobilise properly, we can be one of the strongest parties in Nigeria.”
She stated that the party’s setbacks in the 2023 elections were not a reflection of its structure, but rather of underutilised institutional support, saying: “The NLC and TUC were not carried along as they should have been. That is changing now.”
Ahead of the next elections, the former minister disclosed that LP intended to zone its presidential ticket to the South, adding: “We have brilliant leaders in the South who can take the party forward. The ideology of social justice remains central, and we want a candidate who embodies that vision.”
While acknowledging that the faction led by Julius Abure have vowed to appeal the court ruling, Usman said: “I have extended an olive branch. Labour Party is bigger than any one individual. We must walk together, and I believe the judiciary will act fairly.
“A political party is for the people. Our role is to ensure everyone has the opportunity to present themselves and be elected fairly. We will not lock anyone out.”
On Obi’s exit, Usman stated: “Peter Obi was important, but Labour Party is more than one person. Nigeria has brilliant people who can step up, and we will continue to provide a platform for those who believe in social justice.”
Regarding coalitions or mergers with other opposition parties, she said such decisions would be taken collectively, noting: “One person cannot decide the party’s future alone. We are focused on strengthening Labour Party first.”
Usman reiterated that LP’s mission remained unchanged- to serve the downtrodden and provide a credible platform for Nigerians who feel unheard, adding: “This party is for the people. We will rebuild it the right way and make it a force for social justice in Nigeria.
“We have a responsibility to get it right, and I will not let our members down.”