The Labour Party has established a National Screening Committee to assess aspirants ahead of its nomination primaries for the 2027 general elections, as internal preparations for the polls intensify.

The party announced the development in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, stating that the move is guided by relevant provisions of its constitution and electoral guidelines for the 2026 primaries.

According to the statement, the committee is backed by Articles 20(1B)(d), 20(2)(d), and 27 of the party constitution, as well as provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regulations.

The screening panel will be chaired by the party’s national chairperson, Nenadi Esther Usman. Other members include Mrs Oluchi Oparah, Comrade Mohammad Salisu, Pastor Mrs Martina Umana, Mrs Deborah Yusuf, Dr Chibuzo Okereke, and Dr Olu Ayewoh, while Hon. Iheanacho Obioma will serve as secretary.

The committee’s mandate covers screening aspirants vying for positions including the presidency, governorship seats, and National Assembly offices.

Its responsibilities include verifying the authenticity of documents submitted by aspirants, ensuring full compliance with eligibility requirements, and confirming adherence to both party and statutory regulations before candidates proceed to the primaries.

The panel is also expected to recommend qualified aspirants and submit its report within the timeline outlined in the party’s official election timetable. It may also be assigned additional duties by the party leadership as preparations for the 2027 elections continue.

The statement, jointly signed by Nenadi Usman and the party’s national secretary, Iheanacho Obioma, urged committee members to carry out their duties with transparency, discipline and commitment to the party’s internal democratic process.

Meanwhile, under the Labour Party’s previously released schedule of activities, the submission of nomination forms and commencement of screening are expected to begin on Monday, May 18, marking another key step in the party’s build-up to the 2027 elections.