Labour Party urges Nigerian workers to take charge and challenge APC ahead of 2027 elections

The Labour Party (LP) has renewed its call for Nigerian workers to actively participate in the political process and support its campaign to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections. The party’s Deputy National Chairman, Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi, described the APC administration under President Bola Tinubu as one that has fostered insecurity, economic hardship, and widespread discontent, urging workers to become agents of change.

Speaking during a press briefing at the Nigeria Union of Journalists’ Ogun State Council Secretariat in Abeokuta, Olorunfemi emphasized that workers are constitutionally entitled to join any political party and even hold leadership positions within them. He clarified, however, that civil servants wishing to contest for elective positions must either resign or take a leave of absence, in accordance with the law.

“The constitution guarantees freedom of association, whether in trade unions or political parties,” Olorunfemi noted. “A recent Supreme Court ruling further affirmed that civil servants cannot be restricted from joining parties of their choice. By becoming politically active, workers can directly influence governance instead of relying solely on strikes or protests.”

Olorunfemi also highlighted recent efforts to unify the Labour Party, which has experienced internal divisions since 2023. He affirmed that the party now operates under one leadership structure, led by Julius Abure, with former factional leaders like Lamidi Apapa integrated into the party’s Board of Trustees as part of ongoing reconciliation efforts. Similarly, Abayomi Arabambi, previously the party’s National Publicity Secretary, has been appointed acting Vice Chairman for the Southwest region, pending approval at the upcoming National Executive Committee meeting.

The Deputy Chairman called on party members to actively engage in the forthcoming ward, local, and state congresses scheduled for December 2, 4, and 6. He urged Nigerian workers to harness their collective strength to address the economic and security challenges they face under the APC government, saying, “Workers must team up with the Labour Party to create a better future. Enough is enough.”

Echoing this sentiment, Arabambi pledged to strengthen LP’s presence in Ogun State and criticized the current state administration for failing to prioritize citizens’ welfare. He promised that a future Labour Party government would be transparent, accountable, and focused on improving livelihoods.

The Labour Party has steadily grown in prominence, securing over six million votes in the 2023 elections, winning 11 states including Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory, and capturing 34 House of Representatives seats alongside seven Senate positions. Despite these successes, internal leadership disputes have persisted, with multiple factions vying for control, posing potential challenges for the party’s 2027 ambitions.

As Nigeria prepares for the next electoral cycle, the Labour Party is positioning itself as a platform for workers and citizens who seek meaningful change, unity, and governance that responds to the nation’s pressing needs.

FAQ

Q1: Can Nigerian workers join the Labour Party while employed?
Yes, workers are legally allowed to join political parties and hold internal leadership positions. Those seeking elective offices must resign or take leave.

Q2: Who currently leads the Labour Party?
The party is under the leadership of Julius Abure, with reconciled former faction leaders now part of the Board of Trustees.

Q3: When are the Labour Party congresses scheduled?
Ward, local, and state congresses are set for December 2, 4, and 6, respectively.

Q4: How did the Labour Party perform in the 2023 elections?
LP received over six million votes, won 11 states, 34 House seats, and seven Senate seats.