The Labour Party (LP) is confronting a crisis, with defections threatening its ability to remain a viable political force.
In recent days, six lawmakers from the House of Representatives have switched allegiance to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defections include prominent members like Chinedu Okere, Mathew Donatus, and Esosa Iyawe, who left the party for the APC last week.
The rapid exodus is undermining the LP’s national standing as it approaches the 2027 elections.
This wave of defections has severely affected the LP’s composition in the National Assembly.
The party’s Senate presence has dwindled from eight to six senators.
While its representation in the House of Representatives has decreased from 34 to just 26.
This leaves the LP with only 32 members in the National Assembly, compared to 22 members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
If defections continue at this pace, the LP risks losing its position as the third-largest party in the legislature.
The ongoing leadership conflict within the party has further complicated the situation.
The struggle between the Julius Abure-led National Working Committee and Governor Alex Otti’s faction has led to widespread dissatisfaction among party members.
Furthermore, speculations about Peter Obi’s potential departure from the party are adding to the uncertainty.
If the crisis remains unresolved, the LP could face a steep decline in influence by the time the 2027 elections arrive.
