- The Labour Party rescheduled its 2027 presidential, governorship and legislative primaries to 30 May following timetable adjustments
- The party said the decision was taken to accommodate Sallah celebrations and activities linked to the 29 May Democracy Day anniversary
- Labour Party officials assured members and aspirants that preparations remained on course and promised transparent and credible primaries
The Labour Party has rescheduled its 2027 presidential, governorship, House of Representatives and House of Assembly primary elections to 30 May, citing the need to accommodate major national and religious events.
The development was announced on Thursday in a statement issued in Abuja by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa.
According to the statement, the party had initially scheduled its governorship and state House of Assembly primaries for 27 May, while the presidential and National Assembly primaries were expected to hold on 29 May. However, both exercises will now take place on the same day, 30 May.
Asogwa explained that the adjustment became necessary due to a clash between the party’s original timetable and significant national engagements, including the Sallah celebrations and activities marking Democracy Day anniversary events associated with 29 May.
He stated that the decision reflected the party’s commitment to inclusiveness and sensitivity to national concerns.
“In consideration of the spiritual significance of the Sallah celebration and the national importance of the 29th May anniversary, the Labour Party, as a people-oriented and responsive political party, deemed it appropriate to adjust its schedule to enable members, aspirants, supporters, and Nigerians generally to fully observe these important occasions,” the statement read.
The party added that the decision was taken after consultations with relevant stakeholders and in recognition of the importance of ensuring broad participation in the primaries.
Asogwa also expressed regret over any inconvenience the adjustment may cause aspirants, party officials and supporters who may have already made arrangements based on the previous timetable.
Despite the change in date, the Labour Party assured members that preparations for the primaries remain on course and that all aspirants would be given a level playing field throughout the process.
The announcement comes as political parties across the country intensify preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections. Several parties have already begun consultations and internal processes aimed at selecting candidates for key elective positions.
In recent weeks, political activities have gathered momentum, with parties conducting primaries and endorsement meetings in different states. The ruling All Progressives Congress recently concluded a number of primary elections in preparation for off-cycle contests, while opposition parties continue to reorganise ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The Labour Party said it remains committed to conducting transparent and credible primaries that will reflect the wishes of party members and strengthen internal democracy.