The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Labour Party Nigeria has approved a detailed timetable for its primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections, signaling an early start to its electoral preparations.
At its statutory meeting held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, and observed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the party ratified key dates in compliance with the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines.
According to the approved schedule, the party will submit its membership register to INEC on April 15, 2026. Primaries for governorship, Senate, House of Representatives, and State House of Assembly positions are set for May 15, 2026, while the presidential primary election will take place on May 23, 2026.
NEC also endorsed previously scheduled internal activities, including ward, local government, and state congresses slated for March 26, 28, and 31, 2026, respectively. The party’s National Convention is expected to hold on April 11, 2026.
In addressing internal challenges, the council reviewed recent unrest within the party, including an alleged invasion of its national secretariat by hoodlums reportedly backed by dissident members. Following recommendations from the Peace, Reconciliation and Disciplinary Committee chaired by Salisu Mohammed, NEC approved the suspension of 25 members over alleged indiscipline, anti-party conduct, and involvement in the incident.
Among those suspended are Eneyi G. Zidougha, Hilda Doukubo, Lincolin Charles, Muhammed Sabitu Aliyu, Ogar Osim, Vincent Okwuokei, Casmir Agbo Uchenna, and several others.
As part of broader reforms, the party also approved the expansion of its membership register through a hybrid system combining digital registration with manual processes in rural areas. The initiative aims to modernize its database, improve transparency, and deepen grassroots participation.
NEC further resolved to fill existing vacancies within party structures through the appointment of interim leaders to ensure administrative continuity.
Emphasizing the importance of public support, a party stakeholder noted that electoral success ultimately depends on voters, stating, “Winning over political figures does not guarantee popular backing—the people will have the final say.”
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