The Labour Party has constituted an eight-member committee to screen aspirants for various elective positions in the 2027 general elections.

This is contained in an announcement jointly signed by the party’s National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman and the National Secretary, Iheanacho Obioma and made available to newsmen on Friday in Abuja.

The notice said that the committee was set up pursuant to Articles 20(1B)(d), 20(2)(d) and 27 of the party’s constitution, as well as the provisions of electoral guidelines for the primaries.

The notice named Mr Usman as chairman of the screening committee, with members including Mrs Oluchi Okpara, Mohammed Salisu, Mrs Martina Umana, Mrs Deborah Yusuf, Chibuzo Okereke and Dr Olu Ayewo, while Mr Obioma will serve as Secretary.

The committee was mandated to be solely responsible for screening the party’s aspirants for nomination primaries for presidential, governorship, and National Assembly offices, and to select and recommend qualified candidates.

The committee’s terms of reference also include: screening aspirants in line with the party’s constitution, its 2026 electoral guidelines and the Electoral Act 2026.

The notice said that the committee should be guided by the guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the 1999 Constitution, as amended.

The screening committee is also expected to verify the authenticity and completeness of documents submitted by aspirants and ensure compliance with statutory and party eligibility requirements.

In addition, it is required to submit its report within the timeline stipulated in the party’s schedule of activities and timetable for the primary elections, while carrying out any additional responsibilities assigned by the party’s national leadership.

According to the Labour Party’s timetable, the screening of House of Assembly and governorship positions will be carried out on May 20, while the National Assembly and presidency will hold on May 22.

The Labour Party urged members of the screening committee to discharge their duties with integrity and in the overall interest, as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

(NAN)