The Labour Party faction in Nasarawa State aligned with Julius Abure has begun distributing free expression of interest and nomination forms to party members and intending candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.
The announcement was made on Friday in Lafia by the state chairman of the faction, Alexander Ombugu, during a media briefing at the party secretariat. According to the party leadership, the initiative covers governorship, senatorial, House of Representatives and State House of Assembly positions.
The faction explained that the decision was introduced to reduce financial pressure on aspirants at a time of economic difficulty and to give more members an opportunity to seek elective offices regardless of their financial capacity.
The state leadership said the move reflects its plan to widen participation within the party and ensure that people interested in contesting are not prevented by the cost of nomination processes.
Ombugu maintained that his camp remains committed to presenting candidates for the 2027 elections despite the continuing leadership dispute at the national level involving Julius Abure and Senator Nenadi Usman.
He also disclosed that the party had fixed dates for its primary elections. Governorship and House of Assembly primaries are scheduled for May 27, while Senate and House of Representatives primaries will hold on May 29. He assured party members that the exercises would be conducted in a peaceful and organised manner.
The state chapter further announced plans for the Nasarawa North Senatorial District by-election following the death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki. According to the party, its primary election for the by-election will take place on May 25 to select a candidate ahead of the June 20, 2026 poll announced by INEC.
One of the governorship aspirants under the party, Ibrahim Afaka from Nasarawa Local Government Area, used the occasion to present his plans for the state. He said his focus would be on addressing unemployment and insecurity if given the opportunity to serve.
He also criticised the current administration in the state and said his ambition was driven by a desire to bring change through governance.
The Labour Party continues to operate under competing leadership camps across the country, but both sides have remained active in building structures and preparing for the 2027 elections.