HENRY UDEH EMERGES LABOUR PARTY CHAIRMAN IN EBONYI

By:Tajudeen Aminat
Chief Henry Udeh has emerged as Chairman of the Labour Party (LP) in Ebonyi State after a consensus-driven congress held on Saturday at the party’s secretariat in Abakaliki.
The development is seen as an early step in the party’s strategic repositioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The congress, attended by party loyalists and key stakeholders from across the state, confirmed Udeh’s emergence through a unanimous voice vote.
The motion to adopt a consensus arrangement was moved by Comrade Christian Mayor Iduma and seconded by Mrs. Priscilla Ijeoma Chukwu. It was subsequently approved without opposition, a development party leaders said demonstrated strong unity within the state chapter.
Similarly, other members of the State Executive Committee, including the State Secretary, Mr. Innocent Igiri, were returned to their positions, reinforcing the current leadership structure ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The exercise drew prominent party figures, such as the party’s 2023 governorship candidate in Ebonyi State, Chief Splendor Oko-Eze, and the 2023 House of Representatives candidate for Abakaliki/Izzi Federal Constituency, Dr. Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh.
Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), along with security agencies and representatives of the party’s national leadership, were present to observe the process in line with statutory guidelines.
Speaking after the congress, Chief Splendor Oko-Eze described the smooth conduct of the ward, local government, and state congresses as a major milestone for the party in Ebonyi State.
“The Labour Party ward, local government, and state congresses have been successfully concluded in Ebonyi State, to the glory of Almighty God. This is the party to beat in 2027. Victory is certain — forward ever, and God remains our helper,” he said.
Similarly, Dr. Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh praised the party’s internal procedures, describing the peaceful conduct of the congress as a clear reflection of political maturity and organisational discipline.
He contrasted this with what he described as ongoing internal crises in other political parties, noting that the LP is positioning itself for a dominant role in both state and national politics by 2027.
However, he warned against complacency, calling for continued unity, strategic mobilisation, and stronger institutional structures to further strengthen the party’s rising influence.
In his acceptance speech, Chief Henry Udeh pledged to provide inclusive, transparent, and accountable leadership anchored on grassroots participation and institutional integrity.
“The strength of any political organisation lies in its leadership. When leadership is properly aligned, the entire structure naturally falls into place. We will run an open system where every voice is heard and duly considered in decision-making,” he said.
He further stated that integrity, honesty, and political education would serve as the foundation of his administration, stressing that the party must set itself apart through discipline and accountability.
“I intend to serve as a ‘master-servant’ to the Labour Party in Ebonyi State, ensuring fairness, equity, and responsible management of party affairs,” he added.
Speaking on preparations for the 2027 general elections, the newly elected chairman noted that the state chapter is awaiting official directives from the party’s national leadership before commencing its primary election processes.
“We are waiting for guidance from the national body. Once the guidelines are issued, we will proceed accordingly. Preparatory work is already ongoing, and we will act decisively when the time comes,” he said.
Reaffirming the party’s commitment to internal democracy, Udeh emphasized that candidates would be selected based on grassroots popularity and acceptability, rather than financial strength.
“We are a grassroots-oriented party. Party tickets will go to candidates selected by the people, not those with the deepest pockets, so they can genuinely represent and serve the electorate,” he assured.
Expressing optimism about the party’s chances in future elections, he reiterated the Labour Party’s determination to position itself as a credible alternative.
“Our goal is simple — we are here to win. Without that belief, there is no reason to remain in opposition,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the national leadership, the Deputy National Woman Leader, Mrs. Priscilla Ijeoma Chukwu, described the congress as peaceful, orderly, and conducted in full compliance with established guidelines. She dismissed claims of factional divisions within the state chapter, insisting that the party remains united.
“The process has been calm and seamless, following all approved procedures. The Labour Party in Ebonyi State is one united family,” she said.
She also urged the newly elected leadership to maintain the existing unity and step up efforts toward building a strong political structure capable of securing victory in 2027.
Delegates speaking on the sidelines of the congress voiced confidence that the outcome would strengthen the party’s prospects in future elections. Many also promised to intensify grassroots mobilisation and reinforce the party’s organisational structure ahead of upcoming polls.
