Members of the Labour Party in Nasarawa State loyal to the Senator Nenadi Usman-led administration have elected a new chairman ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The newly elected chairman, Asoloko Maku, spoke during a press conference in Lafia on Tuesday, where he described the recently concluded congresses as proof that the party remained united and prepared for future political battles.
Maku said: “I am honoured and privileged to address the press today, not just as the Chairman of the Labour Party in Nasarawa State, but as a humble servant and a messenger of hope.”
He added: “I accepted the mandate with a deep sense of responsibility, knowing that the confidence reposed in me is a call to duty.”
The chairman also thanked party members across the state for participating in the congresses.
Maku said: “I also thank the 13 Local Government chairmen and secretaries present here, who were duly elected during our peaceful congresses.”
He maintained that the congresses showed the party’s commitment to democratic principles despite opposition from critics.
According to him, the new leadership would focus on inclusiveness, grassroots mobilisation and reconciliation within the party.
Maku said: “As your chairman, I pledge leadership that is transparent, inclusive and committed to the grassroots.”
He added: “I reach out to all members, including those with differing views, to join hands with us.
“The goal is 2027, and we can only succeed together.”
The chairman described the Labour Party as a movement focused on social justice and equitable governance.
“We are not just a political party; we are a movement for social justice,” he said.
Maku also assured members that the party would continue to defend the welfare of ordinary Nigerians across the state.
He said: “We will continue to stand for the dignity of workers, the welfare of the ordinary farmer in Doma, the trader in Mararaba and the youth in Akwanga.”
The new chairman further claimed that the leadership disputes within the Labour Party had already been resolved by the courts.
Maku said: “The Supreme Court verdict of April 4, 2025, overturned previous decisions that gave legal recognition to Barrister Julius Abure, nullifying the convention that purportedly returned him.”
He added: “The Federal High Court ruling of January 21, 2026, confirmed the expiration of Abure’s tenure and removed him as National Chairman, directing INEC to recognise the Senator Nenadi Usman-led caretaker committee.”
According to him, the Court of Appeal also affirmed Usman’s leadership of the party.
Maku said: “The Court of Appeal judgment of April 21, 2026, unanimously dismissed Abure’s appeal, affirmed Senator Usman as the legitimate leader and awarded N10 million in costs against him.”
The chairman urged members to put aside internal disagreements and focus on preparations for the 2027 elections.
He said: “The road to the 2027 elections is here, and we must begin preparations immediately.”
Maku added: “This is a call to action for all Labour Party stakeholders in the state.
“The time for fighting is over; the time for work is here.”
He expressed confidence that the party could secure elective positions across the state and country in the next election cycle.
“In conclusion, the journey to Aso Rock, Government House, the National Assembly and the State Assembly begins today,” he said.
