The Labour Party has dismissed suggestions that the departure of its former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, could weaken the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party’s National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, spoke on Thursday, May 21, during the screening of aspirants at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.
Usman said the increasing number of politicians seeking to contest elections under the Labour Party platform showed that the party remained strong and competitive despite Obi’s exit.
“I don’t think so. Judging from the number of people who indicated interest in using the party as a platform to contest the election, I think the party is still strong.
READ ALSO: 2027: Peter Obi Won’t Be Given LP’s Ticket — Abayomi Arabambi
“I’m happy that the screening process is pretty much a very wonderful exercise. I am also impressed with the turnout of aspirants,” she said.
The Labour Party chairman also confirmed that the party had retained its decision to zone the 2027 presidential ticket to the South.
According to her, the party may eventually adopt a consensus arrangement to select its presidential candidate.
“It’s encouraging. I think we have three people who have purchased forms. But don’t forget that we have decided that, as a party, our next presidential flagbearer should come from the South. So, that will definitely limit the number of people who would buy the forms from us.
“Yes, we are hoping for a consensus. But whoever emerges will be thoroughly screened. That is also because to be the president of this great country that has over 250 million people, we need to screen really well before clearing him. But I assure you it will be free and fair,” she added.