The Labour Party (LP) has firmly declared its readiness to win the 2027 presidential election without the need for a coalition, highlighting its robust grassroots support and strong appeal to the Nigerian electorate.
In a statement made on Sunday, LP National Publicity Secretary Obiora Ifoh rejected the recent speculation about potential coalitions with Rabiu Kwankwaso’s New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Speaking in an interview with The PUNCH, Ifoh emphasized that the LP had not been approached for any coalition discussions, noting that while alternatives were being considered by various stakeholders, the party’s position remained firm.
“We know LP has what it takes to win elections at the highest level, and we demonstrated that in 2023,” Ifoh stated. “If elections were to be held again today, Labour Party would perform even better due to the failure of the current government. What Labour Party stands for—good governance, economic reforms, and social justice—is exactly what Nigeria needs right now.”
The party, which gained significant traction in the 2023 elections, emphasized that it had garnered millions of votes, proving its capacity to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Ifoh further expressed confidence that the LP could triumph without the need for a coalition, but did not completely rule out the possibility of a merger if the terms were advantageous.
“The idea of a coalition is not inherently bad,” Ifoh said. “If Labour Party is approached, we will examine the merits and demerits of any proposal before making a decision.”
This statement follows increasing speculation about potential alliances among opposition parties in preparation for the 2027 elections. Recent reports had suggested discussions between LP, PDP, and NNPP, but both Kwankwaso and Obi have denied any involvement in such negotiations. Kwankwaso, in an interview with BBC Hausa, confirmed that he had not communicated with either Atiku or Obi, and maintained a neutral stance regarding the opposition.
In contrast, PDP’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, defended the party’s importance, arguing that the APC could only be defeated in 2027 through a merger that includes the PDP. He pointed out that despite recent departures, the PDP has consistently delivered victories in gubernatorial and legislative elections across Nigeria, and remains a formidable force in the political landscape.
“As the only party that has won elections without being in power, the PDP is indispensable to any opposition alliance,” Damagum asserted. “Other parties, even in coalitions, have failed to achieve significant results.”
With the 2027 elections on the horizon, political dynamics in Nigeria are becoming increasingly fluid, with opposition parties weighing their options for challenging the dominance of the APC.
Comments