From Peter Okore, Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti has assured the new leadership of the Labour Party Nigeria in Abia State of his full support following what he described as a peaceful and transparent state congress.
The congress, held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Umuahia, marked what the governor called “the beginning of a new era of unity” within the party.
Speaking at the event, Otti commended party members, stakeholders, and organisers for the orderly conduct of the exercise, pledging continued backing for the newly elected executives.
Abia Labour Party exco
“This is the beginning of a new era. Gone are the days when people pull in different directions. Now, we will all pull together,” the governor said. “We will support our party and the new leadership.”
He added that the new executives would take off smoothly, noting that a befitting party secretariat had been provided to support their operations.
“If there is anything you need, feel free to let us know. We want a seamless take-off for the new administration,” Otti stated.
Emerging from the congress, Mr. Peter Azubuike from Obingwa Local Government Area was elected state chairman, while Mr. Chuks Akanmadu from Umuahia North became state secretary.
Other officials elected include Mrs. Ibe Nkeiruka Eucharia (Aba North) as Deputy Chairman (Female), Mr. Emmanuel Alozie (Bende), and Mr. Okoye Iloabuchi, who will represent the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, respectively, as deputy chairmen.
The congress, held at the party secretariat along School Road, Ikot-Ekpene Road, Umuahia, attracted delegates, stakeholders, and observers, including officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, who monitored the process.
Governor Otti also congratulated the Congress Organising Committee, party leadership at national and state levels, and members of the electoral committee for ensuring a successful exercise.
“This is how our processes have always been – smooth and credible. I am very proud of you,” he said.
He urged the new leadership to ensure a seamless transition and called on former party executives to support the new administration, noting that their experience would be critical to maintaining stability and strengthening the party.
Earlier, Chairman of the State Congress Committee, Chief Acho Obioma, said the exercise followed successful ward and local government congresses held earlier in the week. He noted that most positions were filled through consensus, reflecting unity and internal democracy within the party.
Also speaking, State Congress Coordinator, Dr. Chibuzo Okereke, said the process complied with the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and party guidelines, adding that it forms part of preparations for the party’s forthcoming national convention.
In his remarks, the newly elected chairman, Peter Azubuike, pledged to strengthen the party’s structure and ensure inclusiveness ahead of the 2027 elections.
He assured aspirants of a level playing field and promised aggressive membership mobilisation across the state.
“We will go to every nook and cranny to ensure the party captures all parts of the state,” Azubuike said.
He dismissed threats from opposition parties, including the All Progressives Congress, insisting that the Labour Party remains dominant in the state.
“In Abia, if we are to count opposition, APC is not even first or second,” he said.
Azubuike also downplayed concerns over internal disputes at the national level, maintaining that the party had resolved its differences and is now united.
“We used to have crises, but today, there are no issues. The party is fully recovered and poised for victory in 2027,” he added.