Labour Party congresses will begin in March 2026 as the party launches membership revalidation, reconciliation moves, and reacts to Peter Obi’s exit

The Labour Party has resolved to commence its congresses from March 2026 while launching a nationwide revalidation of existing members and registration of new members.

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The decisions were reached at a joint meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee and Interim National Committee held in Abuja on Saturday and chaired by the Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Ukoha Ukoha, the party agreed to set up a timetable for congresses at ward, local government, state and zonal levels, culminating in a National Convention.

“The congresses are scheduled to begin in March 2026,” the statement noted.

The meeting also resolved to begin the revalidation of party membership and the registration of new members, with a dedicated committee constituted to supervise the process.

As part of efforts to heal internal divisions, the party agreed to establish a reconciliation committee to engage aggrieved members willing to return.

It specifically called on the former National Chairman, Julius Abure, and his team to sheath their swords and rejoin the party, while urging Nigerians to align with the Labour Party.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, Otti thanked the Independent National Electoral Commission for recognising the Interim National Committee and uploading the party’s leadership details on its website in compliance with court orders.

The statement added that the party leadership expressed regret over the exit of its 2023 presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, wished him well, and encouraged members to remain united in rebuilding the party.

“The NEC acknowledged that the party has lost some members, particularly those elected under its platform into the National Assembly, as well as some caretaker committee officers who have since been replaced.

However, it maintained that the party remains strong,” the statement said.

The party also noted with regret that it would be unable to participate in the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory election.