2027: LP rules out Obi’s return, cites Electoral Act constraints

By Jude Opara

The interim National Chairman Labour Party (LP), Nenadi Usman has declared that the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, cannot contest the 2027 election under its platform.
Mrs Usman, who spoke during an interview on ARISE TV, monitored in Abuja anchored her position on provisions of the Electoral Act, stating that the party’s membership register would be closed ahead of its primaries, making it legally impossible for new entrants to participate.
She explained that political parties are required to shut their membership registration at least 21 days before primaries and submit the updated register to the Independent National Electoral Commission, leaving no room for late inclusion.
According to her, “once the register is closed and submitted, nobody can be brought in from outside to contest. It would be legally impossible.”
Despite the position, the LP chairman acknowledged Mr Obi’s significant role in the party’s rise during the 2023 elections, noting that he attracted a large support base and influenced several defections from the Peoples Democratic Party.
Mrs Usman revealed that she was among those persuaded by Obi to join the Labour Party, citing his appeal to equity and fairness as a driving force behind their decision.
She further disclosed that her exit from the PDP was informed by disagreement over the party’s refusal to zone its presidential ticket to the South, a move she described as unjust despite her northern background.
The development signals a widening gap between Obi and his former political platform, amid ongoing realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.