The Labour Party (LP) has firmly denied allegations circulating on social media that it is in a partnership with President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released in Abuja on Friday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Obiora Ifoh, dismissed the claims as baseless and harmful.
“We have on several occasions debunked allegations that the Labour Party has an understanding with the ruling APC to collaborate in the 2027 general elections,” Ifoh said.
Labour Party as the “Leading Opposition”
Ifoh described the Labour Party as the most visible opposition in the country, emphasizing the party’s active role in critiquing the government and advocating for reforms.
“Our National Chairman, Barrister Julius Abure, is the leading voice in the opposition camp. He has been most critical of the present government and continues to interrogate the system’s failures,” Ifoh stated.
According to him, the Labour Party has been relentless in its efforts to hold the government accountable since the 2023 general elections.
“Our party has consistently critiqued the policies of the current administration, offered solutions, and advised the government on better pathways,” he added.
Electoral Reforms and Political Education
Highlighting the party’s ongoing initiatives, Ifoh disclosed that the Labour Party recently launched an Electoral Reform Committee.
“With this committee, we aim to enthrone a credible, fair, and transparent electoral process in the country,” he said.
He also noted that the Labour Party is a pioneer in reorienting Nigerians toward politics through its Political Education Committee and e-membership registration program.
“These efforts show our commitment to deepening participatory democracy. Thousands of Nigerians have already subscribed to our e-membership platform,” Ifoh explained.
Viral Allegation Sparks Outrage
The controversy stems from a viral comment by political activist Deji Adeyanju, who alleged that the Labour Party had been “bought” by Tinubu and the APC.
Ifoh described the allegation as “criminal defamation” and a calculated attempt to tarnish the party’s reputation.
“Adeyanju’s assertion, which is trending globally, has caused the Labour Party enormous harm,” he said.
Ifoh challenged Adeyanju to present evidence to substantiate his claims.
“We are calling on Mr. Adeyanju to either provide facts to prove his claims or withdraw his ill assertions and issue a public apology to the leadership and millions of members of the Labour Party,” Ifoh declared.
Defending Labour Party’s Reputation
The Labour Party views Adeyanju’s allegations as a deliberate effort to undermine the party’s credibility.
“As a political party, we view these comments as a criminal defamation and a motivated ploy to ridicule our hard-earned reputation,” Ifoh said.
He warned against any further attempts to damage the party’s image, asserting that the Labour Party remains committed to its principles.
Public Reaction
The Labour Party insists it will not be deterred by baseless accusations as it continues to position itself as a strong opposition force.
“We remain committed to providing credible alternatives to the Nigerian people and championing reforms that will benefit the nation,” Ifoh affirmed.
