The Labour Party (LP) has categorically debunk any plans to merge with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in an effort to dislodge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued by Obiora Ifoh, the spokesperson for LP, the party clarified that they had just concluded the 2023 presidential election and have yet to hold a post-mortem discussion.
Ifoh emphasized that the party’s way forward has not been deliberated upon, and when it is, the Nigerian public will be duly informed.
The LP’s statement was in response to a proposal put forth by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who ran as the PDP flag bearer in the February poll, suggesting that opposition parties should merge to defeat the ruling APC in the next presidential election.
Expressing concerns about Nigeria moving towards a “one-party dictatorship,” Atiku called on other opposition parties to unite and challenge the ruling APC.
However, the LP refuted claims of a merger with the PDP, stating that Atiku’s proposal was just that—a proposal—and that the focus should be on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, as the current state leans toward autocracy.
Ifoh clarified, “There was nowhere in the response that the purported merger between LP and PDP was mentioned.” The party’s emphasis lies in working toward a functioning democracy that benefits all Nigerians.
In response to Atiku’s proposal, the ruling APC criticized the former Vice President and his party, highlighting their electoral failures since 2015 and their inability to provide credible opposition to the Nigerian people.
As Nigeria prepares for future elections, the political landscape remains dynamic, with various parties considering strategies to position themselves optimally.
The LP’s statement clarifies their stance and highlights their intention to engage in a comprehensive discussion to determine their course of action moving forward.
