New Dawn for LP: Nenadi Usman Takes Helm, Promises Party Cohesion Ahead of Elections
The Labour Party (LP) has elected Senator Nenadi Esther Usman as its substantive National Chairman at the party’s 2026 Elective National Convention, held at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, on Tuesday, 28th April.
Other officers elected into the National Working Committee (NWC) include Mr. Iheanacho Obioma as National Secretary, Mrs. Nike Oriola as Deputy National Chairman, Mr. Ken Asogwa as National Publicity Secretary, Ms. Oluchi Oparah as National Organising Secretary, Mr. Anslem Eragbe as National Financial Secretary, and Ms. Hilda Dokubo as National Women Leader, among others.
In her acceptance address, Senator Usman expressed profound appreciation to party members and to the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, for the confidence reposed in her and the newly elected executive. She pledged to foster unity, peace, and reconciliation within the party in preparation for future electoral contests.
Senator Usman, a former Minister of Finance, had previously served as Chairman of the party’s National Caretaker Committee following her appointment on 4th September 2024. In January, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) formally recognised her leadership, pursuant to a ruling of the Federal High Court which affirmed the legitimacy of the caretaker committee.
Subsequently, on 21st April, the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, upheld the judgment of the lower court and dismissed an appeal filed by Mr. Julius Abure challenging his removal as National Chairman of the party.
Addressing delegates at the convention, Governor Otti, regarded as the party’s national leader, congratulated the newly elected officers. He described the process as peaceful and reflective of the nation’s diversity. He urged the new leadership to prioritize reconciliation and integration, commence electronic membership registration, and ensure transparent primary elections at all levels.
Governor Otti described Senator Usman as “a square peg in a square hole,” commending her integrity, transparency, and accountability. He assured her of the party’s unwavering support and expressed confidence that she would rank among the most accomplished national chairmen in Nigeria’s political history. He further extended appreciation to members of the Board of Trustees, officials of INEC, and other stakeholders for their contributions to the success of the convention.
In separate goodwill messages, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, represented by Vice President Stephen Okoro, and the President of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), Comrade Festus Osifo, represented by Secretary-General Dr. Nuhudu Tolu, described the convention as a defining moment in the party’s history.
They observed that the resolutions adopted at the convention would significantly influence the aspirations of the populace and urged the new leadership to rekindle hope among Nigerians.
The convention was attended by party stakeholders from across the federation, including the Anambra Central Senatorial aspirant, Ven. Tochukwu Sagacious Ikezue, government officials, electoral observers, and members of the press.