The faction of the Labour Party led by Interim National Chairman, Nenadi Usman, has scheduled its presidential primary election for May 23, 2026, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party also fixed May 15, 2026, for its governorship, National Assembly, and State Houses of Assembly primaries.
The decisions were reached during a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja and monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
According to a statement by Ken Eluma Asogwa, media aide to Usman, the timetable aligns with the provisions of the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines.
“The NEC has approved a clear and lawful roadmap for the conduct of our primaries as we prepare for the 2027 general elections,” the statement noted.
As part of the timeline, the party will submit its membership register to INEC on April 15, 2026, while ward, local government, and state congresses have been scheduled for March 26, 28, and 31, respectively. The party’s national convention is slated for April 11, 2026.
Addressing internal challenges, NEC condemned what it described as the “unfortunate invasion” of the party’s national secretariat by hoodlums allegedly backed by rogue elements.
Following recommendations from a disciplinary committee, the council approved the suspension of 25 members over alleged misconduct and anti-party activities.
“The NEC, after a thorough review, invoked its disciplinary powers and approved the suspension of members found complicit in acts that undermined the integrity of the party,” the statement added.
The leadership said the action was necessary to restore order and reinforce discipline within party ranks.
In a move to modernise operations, NEC also approved the expansion of its membership register through a hybrid system combining digital and manual registration, particularly targeting rural communities.
The party said the initiative is aimed at strengthening participatory democracy and ensuring transparency in its processes.
Additionally, NEC authorised the appointment of interim officials to fill vacant positions across party structures pending the conduct of substantive congresses.
The council urged members to resolve grievances through internal mechanisms, emphasising the need for unity.
It also welcomed a recent Federal High Court judgment affirming Usman’s leadership and passed a vote of confidence in her and key stakeholders, including Alex Otti.