The Labour Party has denied reports suggesting it is celebrating Peter Obi’s declaration to contest the 2027 presidential election on its platform. In a statement released on Sunday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, the party clarified that such claims are “erroneous, inaccurate, and do not reflect the position or mood of the party.”
The statement reads, in part:
“I was quoted out of context, and the impression conveyed by the media report is misleading. While we are not opposed to any individual seeking the Labour Party’s ticket in the 2027 general election, it must be made categorically clear that the party has an established process for selecting its candidates. An automatic ticket is not one of those routes.”
Ifoh reminded Nigerians that the party had previously rescinded its 2024 National Convention decision, which erroneously granted automatic tickets to its 2023 presidential candidate and the only Labour Party governor.
He further expressed concern over Obi’s recent appearance at a pro-coalition meeting in Abuja, noting that it was done without the knowledge or consent of the Labour Party leadership.
“This is confusing, and it appears that Peter Obi has not fully clarified his intentions for the 2027 presidential race,” Ifoh stated.
The Labour Party reaffirmed its stance against any form of coalition or merger ahead of the 2027 general election, describing Obi’s continued involvement with coalition activities as “distasteful, unacceptable, and an affront to party leadership.”
Ifoh concluded by reiterating that the Labour Party’s presidential ticket remains open to all aspirants:
“We are letting Nigerians know that the presidency for 2027 is open to anyone who wants to run under the platform of the Labour Party.”
The development adds a new twist to the evolving dynamics within the party ahead of the next general election.
