Labour Party appoints Usman to head screening panel

The Labour Party has appointed Nenadi Esther Usman, the Party National Chairman, to lead its screening committee. National Publicity Secretary Ken Eluma Asogwa announced that the exercise will begin on 20 May 2026, starting with aspirants for the State House of Assembly.

​The decision follows Articles 20(1B)(d), 20(2)(d), and 27 of the party’s constitution and the Electoral Guidelines for the 2026 Primaries. Other committee members include Oluchi Oparah, Mohammad Salisu, Martina Umana, Deborah Yusuf, Chibuzo Okereke, and Olu Ayewoh. Iheanacho Obioma will serve as the committee secretary.

​Mandate for presidential and legislative aspirants

​The committee is responsible for screening all aspirants seeking tickets for presidential, governorship, and National Assembly elections. Its terms of reference include ensuring compliance with the Labour Party Constitution, the Electoral Act 2026, and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

​Members must verify the authenticity of all submitted documents and ensure aspirants meet statutory eligibility requirements. The panel will recommend qualified candidates for the nomination primaries and must submit its final report according to the party’s stipulated timetable.

​Schedule for primaries and appeals

​The party leadership urged the committee to act with integrity as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify. Screening for the House of Assembly and governorship seats takes place on 20 May, followed by presidential and National Assembly screening on 22 May. Results will be published on 23 May 2026.

​Appeals and petitions are scheduled for 24 May for state-level positions and 25 May for national roles. The final list of cleared aspirants will be released on 26 May, with party primaries commencing on 27 May 2026.