2027: Otti urges reconciliation as LP ratifies 1,211 candidates

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has called for unity and reconciliation within the Labour Party, emphasizing that internal divisions could undermine the party's chances in the upcoming 2027 General Elections. Otti made these remarks at the party's National Executive Council meeting in Abuja, where 1,211 candidates for various elective positions were ratified, with Dr. Chibuzo Okereke confirmed as the presidential candidate.

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Elections within the party should never create permanent divisions. The contest is over; the assignment has just begun.

Represented by his deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, Governor Otti stressed that primary election contests should not lead to permanent divisions. "Our opponents will seek to exploit divisions among us. We must not give them the opportunity," he stated, urging successful candidates to extend fellowship to fellow aspirants. He advised candidates to see themselves as "ambassadors of hope and agents of change" and highlighted the need for collective action and coordinated campaigns, urging the party to "speak with one voice and mobilise collectively."

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Our opponents will seek to exploit divisions among us. We must not give them the opportunity.

The Labour Party has faced internal leadership disputes in recent years. At the NEC meeting, party leaders reiterated that reconciliation and unity are crucial for electoral success in 2027. National Chairman Nenadi Usman appealed to aggrieved members to set aside grievances and work for the party's growth. "There must be reconciliation, and we need to work together. The party does not belong to any one person," she said, emphasizing that a larger membership base benefits the party.

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You must therefore see yourselves not merely as candidates, but as ambassadors of hope and agents of change.