Sokoto Labour Party elects chairman, vows to unseat APC

The Labour Party in Sokoto State has elected Yawale Abubakar as its new chairman, with party leaders outlining plans to challenge the All Progressives Congress in the 2027 general elections.

Abubakar emerged at a state congress held at the party’s headquarters in Sokoto on Saturday, attended by delegates from the 23 local government areas.

Declaring the result, Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Prof. Mahmud Muhammad, said the exercise met democratic standards.

“The process was free, fair and credible. It reflects the collective will of party members across the state,” he said.

Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission monitored the exercise.

In his acceptance speech, Abubakar said he would work to reposition the party as an effective opposition force.

“We will build an inclusive and transparent leadership that reflects the aspirations of our people. The era of imposition is over,” he said.

He criticised the APC-led government, citing economic hardship and insecurity in the state.

“Farmers can no longer access their lands, food prices are rising, and unemployment is growing,” he said.

Abubakar said the party would focus on grassroots mobilisation ahead of the next election cycle.

“We are determined to unseat the APC in Sokoto and across Nigeria. If we made gains in 2023, we can do more in 2027,” he said.

He added that his administration would prioritise rebuilding party structures, engaging youths and women, and promoting issue-based politics.

“Our strategy is to take the message to the grassroots, empower members and offer practical solutions to the problems facing our people,” he said.

He also announced plans for a statewide campaign to highlight governance issues while presenting the party’s policy alternatives.

The chairman commended the party’s national leadership under Senator Nenadi Usman and thanked stakeholders for their support.

Also speaking, the party’s 2023 governorship candidate, Aminu Umar, described the congress as peaceful and urged the new leadership to remain committed to inclusivity and accountability.

The congress produced 24 executive members, including vice chairmen for the three senatorial districts, as well as a secretary, treasurer, and women and youth leaders.

Party supporters at the venue expressed support for the new leadership as the party begins mobilisation and membership expansion ahead of the 2027 elections.