The leadership of the Labour Party (LP) is resolutely focused on improving the party, aspiring to become the foremost political entity capable of steering Nigeria out of its current challenges.
During a recent National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, the party’s leadership praised Dr. Marcel Ngogbehei, the Director General of the Directorate of Mobilisation and Integration, along with Secretary Shiek Rufai Al-Sadique, for their impressive achievements within just six months of their roles.
Obiora Ifoh, the national publicity secretary of LP, called upon these leaders to enhance their efforts in making the party accessible to all Nigerians. “The NEC has sanctioned a restructuring of the Directorate of Mobilisation and Integration, recognizing the instant success it has achieved since its establishment,” the statement declared.
The NEC also announced the formation of a new Directorate of International and Diaspora Affairs, which will be led by Prof. Eddie Oparaoji, with Ms. Aju Elumelu serving as Secretary. This new body will be responsible for engaging with millions of party members abroad, devising strategies for their active participation in party congresses, including Ward Congresses.
Furthermore, the NEC mandated the immediate inauguration of several key committees, including the Electoral Reform Committee, Political Education Committee, and State Elders Council.
National Chairman Julius Abure highlighted the need for electoral reforms, noting that the Labour Party was significantly affected by the 2023 general election outcomes. He advocated for reforms to ensure that future candidate selections are credible, transparent, and fair.
“In our pursuit for proactive leadership that truly serves the people, the processes leading to candidate selection must reflect integrity,” Abure stated. He announced that Hon. Benedict Etanabene would chair the Electoral Reform Committee, with Hon. Okey Joe as Co-Chair and Dudu Manuga acting as Secretary, tasked with submitting their recommendations within eight weeks.
On the establishment of the Political Education Committee, Abure emphasized the dual responsibility of leadership and followership in Nigeria’s political landscape. “We must reorient our followers to be catalysts for growth and development,” he said. Rt Hon Ativie Elizabeth, the former Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, has been appointed as the committee chair, with Mr. Bulus Maisamari serving as Secretary.
“We are committed to transforming the Labour Party into a major political force in readiness for future engagements, as Nigeria has been in a state of stagnation for far too long. We are determined to rescue our nation,” he concluded.