The Labour Party has officially ratified 1,211 candidates for the 2027 general elections, and its presidential candidate, Chibuzo Okereke, has promised to make the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) optional for graduates if elected.
Okereke made the pledge on Thursday in Abuja at the party's National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, where he also received his certificate of return as the party's flagbearer. He described the Labour Party as the platform of Nigerian workers and ordinary citizens, committed to democratic socialism.
"The party is the political platform of Nigerian workers and ordinary citizens, committed to democratic socialism and inclusive development," Okereke said.
He unveiled a vision he called "Nigerians First," which he said would prioritise citizens' welfare over politics. The agenda includes improved security, economic stabilisation, food security, quality education, healthcare, infrastructure, and transparent governance.
Beyond making NYSC optional, Okereke proposed decentralising basic education and primary healthcare management, and strengthening public institutions. He also pledged greater representation for women in leadership.
Okereke urged Nigerians — especially youth, women, security personnel, and professionals disillusioned by governance challenges — to "believe again" in the country's future. He said a Labour Party administration would focus on restoring public trust, creating opportunities, and delivering measurable improvements.
The party's national secretary, Iheanacho Obioma, told NEC that the primaries used both consensus and direct primary methods. He said INEC officials, party representatives, and accredited observers monitored the exercises, which were conducted peacefully and transparently.
Obioma reported that the party successfully filled 81% of available elective positions, producing approximately 1,211 candidates. The list covers presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and state Houses of Assembly seats. NEC then ratified the list for submission to INEC.
Abia State Governor Alex Otti, represented by his deputy Ikechukwu Emetu, commended the National Working Committee for conducting the primaries. He described the exercise as a demonstration of the party's commitment to internal democracy and the supremacy of members' will.
Otti said the primaries produced both winners and losers, but the greatest winner remained the party. He urged successful candidates to reconcile with fellow aspirants and their supporters, stressing that party contests shouldn't create lasting divisions.
"Nigerians are looking up to Labour Party for credible leadership, progressive governance and practical solutions to the nation's challenges," Otti said, adding that candidates must rise to the enormous responsibility placed on them.
The governor noted that victory in 2027 would depend on party unity, discipline, and a shared commitment to offering Nigerians a credible alternative founded on competence, integrity, and service.
Okereke thanked the party leadership, including national leader Alex Otti and national chairman Nenadi Usman, for entrusting him with the presidential ticket.