The Labour Party has announced a sweeping internal reorganisation that will see congresses held nationwide from March 2026, alongside a comprehensive revalidation of its membership register and the admission of new members.

The decisions were reached at a joint meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee and its Interim National Committee in Abuja. The session was chaired by Abia State Governor Alex Otti, who has emerged as a key figure in efforts to stabilise and reposition the party after months of internal turmoil.

According to a statement issued by Otti’s Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Ukoha, the party resolved to draw up a timetable for congresses at ward, local government, state and zonal levels, culminating in a national convention. The exercise is expected to redefine the party’s leadership structure and give members across the country a renewed sense of ownership.

In addition to the congresses, the Labour Party will embark on a nationwide revalidation of existing members and registration of new ones. A dedicated committee has been constituted to supervise the process, which party leaders say is aimed at cleaning up the register, strengthening grassroots structures and preparing for future elections.

The meeting also agreed to set up a reconciliation committee to reach out to aggrieved members and factions. In a significant overture, the party called on former National Chairman Julius Abure and his associates to “sheath their swords” and return to the fold, stressing that unity is essential if the party is to remain a viable national force.

Otti, briefing journalists after the meeting, thanked the Independent National Electoral Commission for recognising the Interim National Committee and updating the Labour Party’s leadership details on its portal in line with court orders. He described the move as a boost to the party’s legitimacy.

The leadership expressed regret over the departure of its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, acknowledging that his exit and the defection of some lawmakers elected on the party’s platform had been setbacks. However, it insisted that the Labour Party remains intact and focused on rebuilding.

The party further disclosed that it would not be able to participate in the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory election, a development it described as unfortunate but not fatal to its long-term plans.

Otti thanked supporters nationwide and pledged that the Labour Party would emerge from its current challenges more united, better organised and ready to compete in future electoral contests.