By PERPETUA ONUEGBU

The Labour Party (LP) has declared its presidential ticket open to all qualified members ahead of the 2027 general elections, while expressing confidence in its newly constituted National Working Committee (NWC).

Dr Alex Otti, Governor of Abia and National Leader of the party, stated this on Thursday in Abuja after observing the inaugural meeting of the NWC.

Otti said the new leadership, which emerged from the party’s recent national convention, had the backing and capacity to reposition the party.

He congratulated the National Chairman, Sen. Nenadi Usman, and members of the 13-member committee, noting that the high physical attendance at the meeting reflected unity and commitment.

“I would like to congratulate the National Chairman and members of the National Working Committee for being found worthy to lead the party for the next four years. We have absolute confidence in her ability to lead,” he said.

Otti added that the party remained focused on strengthening its internal processes, including primaries and voting procedures, ahead of future elections.

On concerns about internal divisions, he said the outcome of the convention demonstrated broad participation, with more than 25 state chairmen; including some from previous leadership structures in attendance.

According to him, this signals that the party is gradually overcoming its challenges and consolidating unity.

Speaking on the 2027 presidential race, Otti said the party would provide a level playing field for all aspirants.

“If you meet the requirements of the party and you want to run, we will give you a ticket. Democracy does not stop anybody who wants to contest. It is the people that will decide who leads them,” he said.

He outlined key conditions for aspirants, including party membership and financial standing, stressing that no qualified member would be excluded.

On speculation about political alignments, Otti dismissed claims of external influence, maintaining that all registered parties, including the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), would continue to operate within the democratic space.

“There is no substance to claims of any hidden hand. APC was there in 2023 and remains a political party. The same applies to other parties,” he said.

The national leader reiterated the party’s commitment to internal democracy and inclusiveness as it positions itself for the next electoral cycle.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Usman was elected National Chairman at the party’s national convention held in Umuahia, Abia, after serving as interim chairman since Sept. 4, 2024.

NAN also reports that her emergence makes her the first woman to be elected National Chairman of a political party in Nigeria. (NAN)