By Gambo Ahmed, Lafia
The Nasarawa State chapter of the Labour Party (LP), loyal to the Barr. Julius Abure faction, has commenced the distribution of free expression of interest and nomination forms to party members and intending aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The forms being distributed cover governorship, senatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly positions.
Speaking during a press briefing at the party’s secretariat on Friday in Lafia, the state chairman of the party, Alexander Ombugu, said the initiative was aimed at cushioning the effects of the current economic hardship on aspirants.
According to him, the decision by the Abure-led faction to issue the forms free of charge would provide equal opportunities for interested members to contest elective positions regardless of their financial status.
Ombugu maintained that, as the authentic chairman of the party in the state, it was necessary to begin preparations and field candidates ahead of the 2027 elections despite the lingering leadership tussle between Barr. Julius Abure and Senator Nenadi Usman.
“I have the mandate given to us to field candidates, and we are doing our best to carry out the directives of the national chairman. Therefore, I will present these forms free of charge to all our aspirants without them paying any money,” he said.
He noted that while many political parties sell their nomination forms at high prices, the Labour Party remains a people-oriented platform.
“Many political parties place exorbitant prices on their expression of interest and nomination forms. But the Labour Party belongs to the people. It is a party for all, which is reflected in our logo of Papa, Mama and Pikin.
“As a party of the people, we have decided to issue these forms free of charge to all interested aspirants under the platform of the party,” he added.
The chairman urged politicians with proven integrity to obtain the forms promptly and ensure their submission within the timeline stipulated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Speaking on the forthcoming Nasarawa North Senatorial District by-election scheduled for June 20, 2026, Ombugu disclosed that the party had fixed May 25 for its primary election to produce a candidate for the poll.
“Following the demise of our brother, Senator Godiya Akwashiki, INEC announced that a by-election will be conducted in the zone. Therefore, on May 25, we will conduct our primary election in Nasarawa North Senatorial District to produce our candidate for the June 20 senatorial election,” he said.
Also speaking, a Labour Party governorship aspirant for the 2027 election, Ibrahim Afaka from Nasarawa Local Government Area, pledged to tackle unemployment and insecurity if elected governor.
Afaka criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration in the state, alleging that it had failed the people since assuming office.
He assured residents that his ambition was driven by a desire to bring positive change to the state rather than personal gain.
