KEY POINTS

• Nenadi Usman has been elected as National Chairman of the Labour Party at its convention in Umuahia.
• Court rulings and INEC recognition resolved leadership disputes, clearing the way for her emergence.
• She is expected to reposition the party and strengthen its chances ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Labour Party (LP) has officially elected Nenadi Usman as its substantive National Chairman. Her emergence was confirmed at the party’s national convention held in Umuahia on Tuesday.

Before this election, Usman served as the chairperson of the party’s National Caretaker Committee, a role she assumed in September 2024 following the expiration of the previous leadership’s tenure.

Usman’s leadership journey was shaped by internal disputes within the party, which were eventually settled in her favour by the courts

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had earlier recognised her as caretaker chairman after a ruling by the Federal High Court in January 2026.

This position was further strengthened when the Court of Appeal upheld the decision in April, effectively cementing her authority and clearing the path for her emergence as substantive chairman.

Experienced Politician Takes Charge

A former minister of finance and senator, Usman brings significant political experience to the role. Her election comes at a critical time as the Labour Party prepares for the 2027 general elections.

In her acceptance speech, she thanked party members for their trust and pledged to reposition the party for greater electoral success. She also emphasised unity, reconciliation, and internal stability as key priorities.

Alex Otti, Governor of Abia State, commended the new leadership and urged members of the National Working Committee (NWC) to provide strong and purposeful direction for the party nationwide.

Other officials elected into the NWC include key party figures such as the national secretary, publicity secretary, organising secretary, and women leader, among others. The newly elected executives have since been sworn in and have officially assumed office.