The Labour Party has clarified that no aspirant—including its 2023 presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi—will receive an automatic ticket for the 2027 elections.

According to the party, all elective positions, from the presidency to governorship and others, will be contested through properly conducted primary elections.

The National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to internal democracy, stressing that the rules will be strictly followed. He also noted that the party remains open to reconciling with Obi and other aggrieved members, despite the ongoing disagreement between the former Anambra governor and the Julius Abure–led leadership.

“We have addressed this many times. The Labour Party has repeatedly said that candidates will emerge only at the party’s convention.

“The NEC has made its position clear on the presidential ticket. Anyone seeking to contest—whether for president, governor, or even chairman—must go through a democratic convention. No one is entitled to an automatic ticket.

“As for Obi’s position in the party, he alone can clarify that. No one can speak for him. Whether he remains in the party or not is a question only he can answer,” Ifoh stated.