The Labour Party Nigeria has postponed its ward, local government, and state congresses, along with its national convention, in a move aimed at strengthening participation in its ongoing membership re-registration exercise.
The internal elections were initially scheduled to begin on March 26, 2026, with ward congresses kicking off the process. Local government congresses were set for March 28, followed by state congresses on March 31, while the national convention had been fixed for April 11, 2026. However, the party leadership has now delayed the entire timetable.
Reason for Postponement
The decision was reached after a stakeholders’ meeting involving members of the Interim National Working Committee (NWC) and representatives of labour unions.
In a statement signed by Ken Eluma Asogwa, Senior Special Adviser on Media to the Interim National Chairman, the party said the shift would allow more members to take part in its internal processes.
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According to the statement, the postponement is designed to give both existing members and new entrants enough time to complete the re-registration exercise and participate fully in the congresses.
“The adjustment is necessary to ensure broader inclusion and participation across all levels of the party structure,” the statement noted.
Committee Inaugurated for Congresses
As part of preparations for the rescheduled exercises, the party has inaugurated a 45-member Congresses and Convention Committee to oversee the process.
The committee is chaired by Ginger Onwusibe, who represents Isiala Ngwa South/Isiala Ngwa North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Other members include key party figures such as Salisu N. Mohammed, Obinna Aguocha, Amaobi Ogah, Ibe Okwara, Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, Alozie Munachim Ikechi, Benedict Etanabene, Emmanuel Emeruwa, Lawson Osagie, and Imaobong Ufot.
While inaugurating the committee, the Interim National Chairman, Nenadi Usman, urged members to approach their responsibilities with diligence and neutrality.
She stressed the need for transparency and accountability throughout the process, noting that the credibility of the congresses will play a key role in shaping the party’s future direction.
Usman also highlighted the importance of using the additional time effectively to ensure that the exercises, once rescheduled, are conducted smoothly and without disputes.
Appeal to INEC and Party Members
The party appealed to its members, supporters, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for understanding over the change in schedule.
It assured stakeholders that a new timetable for the congresses and national convention would be announced soon.
The postponement comes at a critical time as the Labour Party continues to reorganise following the 2023 general elections. Internal congresses are key to determining leadership structures at all levels, making them central to the party’s long-term strategy.
By delaying the process, the party appears focused on strengthening its membership base and ensuring wider participation, a move that could influence its internal stability and electoral readiness ahead of future polls.
With a new schedule expected in the coming weeks, attention will now shift to how effectively the party manages its re-registration exercise and prepares for what is likely to be a closely watched internal electoral process.
