The Labour Party (LP) leadership recently declared a clear stance: no aspirant would receive an automatic ticket for the 2027 general elections. This policy applies even to its most prominent figure, former presidential candidate Peter Obi.

Obiora Ifoh, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, confirmed this development to Punch. He stated that Obi must participate in competitive primaries if he decides to rejoin the party fold.

Ifoh further revealed that Obi has maintained his distance from the current LP leadership for about a year. Despite this, the party remains open to reconciliation. This includes the former Anambra State governor and other aggrieved stakeholders.

This statement comes amid growing uncertainty about Obi’s political direction. It also highlights a deepening rift between him and the Julius Abure-led LP leadership.

No Automatic Tickets for Any Aspirant

Ifoh clarified the party’s position on ticket allocation. “We have answered this question several times,” he said. “The Labour Party consistently states that tickets will be decided at the party’s convention.” He added that the National Executive Council (NEC) has already addressed the presidential candidacy.

He emphasized, “Every candidate must emerge through a democratically convened convention. There is no automatic ticket for anyone.” This rule applies to presidential, governorship, or chairmanship aspirants alike.

Peter Obi’s Year-Long Silence

Regarding Peter Obi’s status, Ifoh noted, “Obi’s position in the Labour Party can only be clarified by him. Nobody can speak for him.” He continued, “Whether he is in the ADC or Labour Party, he is the only one who can answer that.”

The party official acknowledged the lack of communication. Ifoh explained, “We know that in the last year, he has not truly spoken with the current leadership.” He added, “We accept this, as many other individuals have also not been very active.”

NEC Meeting Focused on Congresses, Not Obi

When asked why the recent NEC meeting did not discuss Obi, Ifoh provided an explanation. He said the session was solely dedicated to launching congresses and primaries. “The NEC meeting was to kick-start our congresses, which we successfully conducted,” he stated.

He highlighted the success of these efforts. “It was extremely successful. Have you seen our viral videos and pictures?” Ifoh asked. He did mention an exception: “In Abia State, there was a court injunction, which we, as a party, respected and obeyed.”

Labour Party Moving Forward

Ifoh confirmed the party’s ongoing progress. “Everything is going well with us,” he affirmed. “We have conducted primaries in Ekiti State. We will soon do the same in Osun.”

He also noted cooperation from election officials. “INEC is working with us. The commission monitored everything,” he said. “They gave us key codes to upload our candidates.”

“So, we don’t really have a problem,” Ifoh concluded. “We are already moving, and we hope that by 2027, we would have achieved all our set goals.”