Dr. Ayo Olorunfemi, the Deputy National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), has called on Nigerian workers to rally behind the party’s effort to displace President Bola Tinubu’s APC-led administration in the upcoming 2027 elections. During a press briefing held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists secretariat in Ogun State, Olorunfemi criticized the current government for fostering insecurity and hardship, asserting that it should not be allowed to continue beyond May 2027.
He emphasized the constitutional rights of workers to join any political party and clarified that, should they wish to run for office, they only need to resign or request leave. The LP is positioning itself as a united entity under the leadership of Julius Abure, with recent reconciliatory steps that include appointing former factional chairman Lamidi Apapa to the party’s Board of Trustees.
Additionally, Abayomi Arabambi was named acting Vice Chairman for the Southwest, which will be officially ratified at the upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. Olorunfemi is traveling to engage party members in preparation for the December congresses, encouraging active participation at the ward, local, and state levels.
He urged Nigerian workers to join the Labour Party as it aims to address the challenges they face under the current administration. “The constitution grants freedom of association, and civil servants can engage with political parties without restriction,” he stated, underscoring the need for workers to take on a more significant role in governance rather than merely protesting against it.
Citing recent Supreme Court rulings that support political participation for civil servants, he reiterated that workers have the power to influence governance and should unite with LP to bring change. Olorunfemi declared, “Enough is enough. Workers must partner with us to ensure the APC is removed from power in 2027.”
Addressing party unity, he dismissed claims of division, asserting that anyone suggesting otherwise is attempting to create distractions. He clarified that the leadership of the party is determined by the organization itself and confirmed that the recent Supreme Court ruling supports the legitimacy of Abure’s elected leadership.
Arabambi, who supported the new appointments, expressed commitment to making the LP a formidable political force in Ogun State by 2027, condemning the current administration’s performance.
The Labour Party, having garnered over six million votes in the 2023 elections and winning significant seats, faces internal challenges that could impact its objectives. Despite these hurdles, the party remains optimistic about its future prospects and its mission of advocating for the welfare of Nigerian workers and citizens alike.