The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Nenadi Usman, has declared that it would be too late for the party’s former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to return and contest under its platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Usman made the statement during a television interview, citing legal and procedural constraints within Nigeria’s electoral framework and the party’s internal rules.
According to her, once the party concludes its membership registration and submits its official register to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), it becomes legally impossible to admit new aspirants into the process.
She explained that political parties are required to close their register at least 21 days before primary elections, after which no new member can be added for the purpose of contesting.
Legal barrier to return
Usman stressed that the restriction is not political but legal.
She said the Electoral Act clearly defines timelines for party primaries and candidate eligibility, making it impossible for anyone to “come from behind the door” to participate once the process has closed.
Her comments come amid speculation about Obi’s political future and whether he might return to the Labour Party after leaving the platform.
Obi, who was the party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has since moved to another political platform as part of ongoing realignments ahead of 2027.
Obi’s influence on Labour Party
Despite her position, Usman acknowledged the significant role Obi played in transforming the Labour Party into a major political force during the last election cycle.
She noted that Obi’s entry into the party attracted widespread support, especially among young voters and urban populations.
According to her, many current members of the Labour Party were drawn into the platform because of Obi’s influence and message of reform.
She admitted that even she was persuaded to join the party by Obi’s campaign, which emphasised fairness and equity at a time when internal disputes affected other major political parties.
Background to the political shift
The Labour Party, founded in 2002 as a social democratic platform, gained national prominence in 2023 when Obi emerged as its presidential candidate.
His candidacy significantly increased the party’s visibility and support base, leading to strong performances in several parts of the country.
However, the party has since faced internal challenges and leadership disputes, while the broader political environment has seen increased defections and alliances ahead of the next general election.
Recent developments across parties show growing instability, with shifting loyalties and last-minute negotiations shaping the political landscape as primaries approach.
Party’s future direction
Usman said the Labour Party is now focused on rebuilding and strengthening its internal structure ahead of the 2027 elections.
She emphasised that the party would return to its founding ideals of social justice, fairness, and equal opportunity.
She also highlighted the role of Abia State Governor Alex Otti as a key figure representing the party’s vision and governance style.
According to her, the party intends to consolidate its base and present credible candidates rather than depend on any single individual.
Wider political implications
Usman’s statement has added to the ongoing debate about Obi’s political future and the direction of opposition politics in Nigeria.
Analysts say the situation reflects a broader trend of fluid alliances and shifting party loyalties ahead of elections.
The 2027 race is already shaping up to be highly competitive, with multiple parties repositioning themselves and seeking strong candidates.
Observers also note that legal timelines and party structures are increasingly playing a decisive role in determining who can contest elections.
Mixed reactions
The statement has generated mixed reactions among political observers and supporters.
Some believe the Labour Party is right to focus on its internal processes and avoid last-minute changes that could disrupt its plans.
Others argue that excluding a high-profile figure like Obi could weaken the party’s chances in a competitive election.
Supporters of Obi maintain that his political influence remains strong, regardless of the platform he chooses.