The Labour Party (LP) has expressed confidence in its ability to win the 2027 presidential election without forming alliances, citing its strong grassroots support and widespread appeal among Nigerians.
Obiora Ifoh, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, dismissed recent speculation about a possible coalition with Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He stated that LP’s performance in the 2023 general elections demonstrated its capacity to independently challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“As it stands, the Labour Party has not been approached or invited to any meeting to discuss a coalition,” Ifoh told *The PUNCH* on Sunday. “Labour Party didn’t need any coalition in 2023 when it gathered millions of votes from Nigerians who wanted change. We know the system played a trick on Nigerians and LP, but we’ve proven that we have what it takes to win elections at the highest level.”
Ifoh emphasized that LP’s vision and policies align with the current needs of Nigerians, further bolstering the party’s chances in 2027.
While maintaining its independence, the LP did not rule out the possibility of a merger under the right conditions. “The idea of a coalition is not bad. If Labour Party is approached, we will scrutinize the proposal and weigh the merits and demerits,” Ifoh added.
Rumors of a potential coalition among opposition parties have been fueled by reports suggesting that LP, PDP, and NNPP might unite to challenge the APC in 2027. However, Kwankwaso and Peter Obi, LP’s 2023 presidential candidate, have denied these claims.
In a recent BBC Hausa interview, Kwankwaso said, “I have not communicated with either Atiku or Obi,” reaffirming his neutral stance. Similarly, Obi distanced himself from the rumors, stating at a press conference, “I am not a party to any arrangement of this nature.”
The acting National Chairman of the PDP, Umar Damagum, emphasized the importance of a coalition but maintained that the PDP remains pivotal to any successful merger.
“President Bola Tinubu and the APC cannot be defeated in 2027 except through a merger that includes the PDP,” Damagum stated. He highlighted the PDP’s consistent presence and successes over the years, arguing that no coalition could succeed without the party’s involvement.
