The Labour Party (LP) has expressed confidence in its ability to secure victory in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election without forming coalitions with other political entities. This assertion follows recent speculations about potential alliances involving the LP, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
Obiora Ifoh, the National Publicity Secretary of the LP, emphasized the party’s grassroots support and its performance in the 2023 elections as indicators of its electoral strength. He stated, “Labour Party didn’t need any coalition in 2023 when it gathered millions of votes from Nigerians who wanted Labour Party to take over the leadership of the nation.”
Obiora Ifoh, who serves as the National Publicity Secretary of the LP, belongs to the faction led by Julius Abure,
Ifoh also noted that while the idea of a coalition isn’t dismissed outright, the LP has not been approached for any such discussions. He remarked, “As it stands, Labour Party has not been approached or invited to any meeting whatsoever to discuss a coalition.”
This stance comes amid denials from key political figures about ongoing merger talks. Both Rabiu Kwankwaso of the NNPP and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the PDP have refuted claims of discussions with the LP. Kwankwaso stated, “I have not communicated with either Atiku or Obi,” while Peter Obi of the LP similarly distanced himself from such rumors, saying, “I am not a party to any arrangement of this nature.”
What Labour Party Will Contest the 2027 Elections?
Compounding these internal challenges is a recent wave of defections from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Several LP politicians, including key figures who supported Peter Obi in 2023, have switched allegiances, citing dissatisfaction with the party’s leadership and internal conflicts. This exodus raises further concerns about the LP’s ability to retain its support base and effectively compete in the next presidential election.
A Wasted Opportunity?
Peter Obi has faced mounting criticism over his leadership effectiveness. Key figures, including Kenneth Okonkwo, former spokesperson for the party’s presidential campaign, have accused Obi of indecisiveness in managing internal party crises and failing to strengthen the party’s structure post-election. Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka also questioned Obi’s leadership capacity, highlighting his inability to restrain supporters from attacking critics online, a behaviour Soyinka argues, perhaps unfairly, reflects weak leadership unfit for a diverse nation like Nigeria. Additionally, Doyin Okupe, former Director-General of Obi’s campaign, criticized the party’s structural weaknesses and predicted further defections, attributing the exodus to Obi’s failure to build a sustainable political framework. These critiques underscore concerns about Obi’s approach to party management, structural consolidation, and effective control over party supporters. Peter Obi has been unable to build on his widespread support to offer a viable opposition to the government or propose alternative views on important economic policies and national issues.