The Labour Party has elected former Minister of Finance, Nenadi Usman, as its new National Chairman during its National Convention, marking a major shift in the party’s leadership structure.
At the same convention, Rt. Hon. Iheanacho Obioma emerged as National Secretary, while other key positions in the National Working Committee were also filled. These include 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 Nollywood actress Hilda Dokubo as National Women Leader.
The development comes after a prolonged internal leadership crisis within the party, triggered by the expiration of its previous executive tenure. The dispute had led to a caretaker arrangement that was later headed by Usman.
Usman, who was appointed in September 2024 to lead the party’s caretaker committee, played a central role in stabilising the party through a period of internal divisions. Her position was later strengthened by recognition from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and court rulings from both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal affirming her leadership.
In her acceptance speech, Usman expressed gratitude to party members and called for unity and renewed focus.
“I am deeply grateful for the confidence reposed in me by members of our great party, and I assure you that I will not let the Labour Party down in this new responsibility,” she said.
She urged members to put aside differences and work together to reposition the party ahead of future elections, stressing unity and reconciliation as key priorities.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, who attended the convention, also addressed the gathering and called on the new leadership to strengthen party structures across the country. He described the task ahead as demanding and urged them to provide focused leadership.
The convention also highlighted Usman’s growing influence within the party. In recent weeks, she had stated that it would be difficult for the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to return and contest under the Labour Party platform ahead of the 2027 elections, citing electoral timelines and internal party procedures.
Despite acknowledging Obi’s role in boosting the party’s national profile, Usman maintained that the party must adhere strictly to its rules and registration timelines.
She further said the Labour Party would now return to its founding principles of social justice, equity, and equal opportunity, pointing to Governor Otti as an example of the party’s ideals in governance.
With the new leadership in place, the Labour Party says it is entering a new phase focused on rebuilding internal cohesion and preparing for future electoral contests.
