The Julius Abure-led faction of the Labour Party in Nasarawa State has begun issuing free expression of interest and nomination forms to party members seeking elective positions ahead of the 2027 elections.
The free forms cover governorship, senatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly positions.
State Labour Party Chairman, Alexander Ombugu, announced the development during a press briefing at the party secretariat in Lafia on Friday.
He explained that the decision was aimed at easing the financial burden on aspirants amid the current economic hardship and ensuring that qualified individuals are not excluded from the political process because of lack of funds.
Ombugu said the faction remained committed to producing candidates for the 2027 elections despite the ongoing leadership dispute between Julius Abure and Senator Nenadi Usman.
“I have the mandate which has been given to us, a mandate to fill in our candidates and we are doing our best to do what the national chairman said to us. So with me, I will present this forms free of charge to all our aspirants without them paying any money.
“We are aware that many political parties put their expression of interest and nomination forms at a higher price. But the Labour Party belongs to the people. It is a party of all, that is why our logo indicates Papa, Mama and Pikin.
“Therefore as a party of the people, we have decided to issue these forms free of charge to all interested aspirants under the platform of the party.”
He urged credible politicians in the state to obtain and submit the forms before the deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Ombugu also disclosed that the party’s primaries would hold between May 27 and 29, assuring members of a transparent and peaceful exercise.
“May 27th is for the Governorship and House of Assembly primaries, while May 29th is going to be for the Senate and House of Representatives primaries,” he said.
On the upcoming Nasarawa North Senatorial District by-election scheduled for June 20, 2026, Ombugu said the party had fixed May 25 for its primary election to select a candidate.
“As a result of the demise of our brother, Senator Godiya Akwashiki, INEC announced that By-election will be held in the zone. Therefore, on the 25th of this month, we will be conducting primary election in the Nasarawa North Senatorial District in order to have a candidate who will contest during the June 20 senatorial election,” he explained.
Speaking further, Labour Party governorship aspirant Ibrahim Afaka promised to tackle unemployment and insecurity if elected in 2027.
He criticised the ruling APC administration in the state, claiming it had failed to deliver good governance, while pledging to bring positive change to Nasarawa.
The Labour Party has remained split between the Abure-led leadership and the Nenadi Usman faction, with both camps continuing preparations for the 2027 elections nationwide.
