The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Labour Party has approved the timetable for its primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections, signalling the party’s early preparation for the electoral cycle.
At a statutory NEC meeting held on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, and monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the party confirmed key dates in line with the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines. According to the approved schedule, the submission of the party’s membership register to INEC will take place on 15 April 2026.
The council further announced that primaries for governorship, Senate, House of Representatives, and State House of Assembly positions will be conducted on 15 May 2026. The presidential primary election is scheduled to follow on 23 May 2026, marking a critical step in determining the party’s flagbearer for the 2027 presidential race.
In addition to the primary election timetable, the NEC ratified the actions of the party’s national leadership concerning its internal democratic processes. This includes the conduct of Ward, Local Government, and State Congresses slated for 26, 28, and 31 March respectively, as well as the National Convention scheduled for 11 April 2026. These activities are expected to consolidate party structures and strengthen grassroots participation across the country.
As the highest decision-making organ of the party after the National Convention, the NEC also deliberated on recent developments affecting the party’s internal stability. Among the issues reviewed was an alleged invasion of the party’s national secretariat by hoodlums, reportedly linked to certain disgruntled elements within the party.
Following the submission of a report by the Peace, Reconciliation and Disciplinary Committee, chaired by Comrade Salisu Mohammed, who serves as Secretary of the Board of Trustees, the council exercised its disciplinary authority. It approved the suspension of members found to be involved in acts of indiscipline, anti-party activities, and alleged complicity in the disruption and desecration of the party’s national secretariat.
The NEC emphasised the importance of discipline, unity, and adherence to party rules, noting that such measures are necessary to preserve the integrity and credibility of the party as it prepares for future elections.
In a move aimed at strengthening its organisational framework, the council also approved the expansion of the party’s membership register through a hybrid system. This approach combines digital registration with manual registration, particularly targeting rural communities where access to technology may be limited.
The initiative is designed to modernise the party’s database, enhance inclusiveness, and improve transparency and efficiency in its administrative processes. Party leaders stated that the strategy aligns with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and reflects a commitment to participatory democracy.
Furthermore, the NEC resolved to address existing gaps within the party’s leadership structure by filling vacant positions through the appointment of interim leaders. This measure, according to the council, is intended to ensure continuity in administration and maintain stability across all levels of the party.
Overall, the decisions taken at the NEC meeting underscore the Labour Party’s efforts to strengthen its internal processes, enforce discipline, and position itself effectively for the upcoming 2027 general elections.
