LP elects Nenadi Usman as National Chairman, sets sights on 2027 election

Labour Party (LP) has formally elected Senator Nenadi Usman as its new National Chairman during its national convention held in Umuahia, Abia State, on Tuesday.

The development was confirmed in a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa.

Alongside Usman’s emergence, other key members were elected into the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). They include Rt. Hon. Iheanacho Obioma as National Secretary, Mrs. Nike Oriola as Deputy National Chairman, Ken Eluma Asogwa as National Publicity Secretary, Mrs. Oluchi Oparah as National Organising Secretary, Comrade Anslem Eragbe as National Financial Secretary, and Hilda Dokubo as National Women Leader, among others.

Following the convention, the newly constituted NWC was sworn in and has officially assumed office.

Usman had earlier been serving as Chairman of the party’s National Caretaker Committee, a role she assumed after her appointment at a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Umuahia on September 4, 2024.

Highlighting her credentials, the statement noted:
“A former Minister of Finance and Senator, Usman brings a wealth of experience and proven capacity to her new role. As the 2027 general elections approach, she bears the immediate responsibility of positioning the party for electoral success. Following its strong showing in the 2023 general elections, the Labour Party has firmly established itself as a formidable political platform, a foundation Senator Usman is poised to consolidate.

“Prior to the convention, Senator Usman had been recognised as the Chairman of the National Caretaker Committee of the party by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday, 30th January 2026, following a Federal High Court judgment delivered on 21st January 2026 affirming her leadership. This decision was subsequently upheld by the Court of Appeal in a unanimous judgment delivered on Tuesday, 21st April 2026,” the statement read in part.

In her acceptance speech, Usman thanked party members for entrusting her with the leadership of the party and pledged to reposition it for greater achievements. She also praised the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, for what she described as exemplary leadership, assuring members that she would justify the confidence placed in her.

The new chairman further emphasised her commitment to promoting unity, peace, and reconciliation within the party as it prepares for future electoral contests.

Meanwhile, Governor Otti urged the newly elected NWC to provide strong and purposeful leadership, stressing the need to deepen the party’s structures across the country.