By Vera Wisdom-Bassey
In a strategic move to revitalize its Lagos State chapter and prepare for the 2027 general elections, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Labour Party inaugurated a 24-member caretaker committee, led by Rotimi Ogunike as chairman.
The event, which took place yesterday, was aimed at restoring internal unity, mobilizing grassroots support, and reestablishing the party’s political presence in the state.
The newly formed caretaker council includes notable members such as Deputy Chairman Oloye Adeboyega Adeniji, Adefolaseye Adebayo, Comrade Rasheed, Barrister Mrs. Akpan, and Mr. Opeyemi, with Dorcus appointed as Secretary. The The caretaker committee is to conduct party congresses, resolve internal disputes, and build a stronger structure capable of securing electoral success in the 2027 elections.
Speaking during the event, Hon. Victor Ogene Afamefuna, a member of the House of Representatives and prominent Labour Party leader, who addressed the gathering on behalf of former minister and party chieftain, Esther Nenadi Usman, emphasized the importance of the new leadership in fortifying the party’s foundation, particularly in Lagos, which he described as the Labour Party’s strategic base.
“Lagos is fundamentally the heart of our movement,” Afamefuna declared, adding, “If we want to succeed in the coming elections, we must put our house in order now. That’s what this committee represents: renewal, unity, and strength.”
Afamefuna also commented on concerns about the wave of defections occurring across various political parties. He downplayed their significance, describing them as a natural part of the political cycle.
“By the time primary elections start, defections will intensify. Many who left will return, and new members will join. This is politics, not the church. It’s a place of engagement and even conflict, but ultimately, we are one family,” he remarked.
His speech served as both reassurance and a call to action, encouraging party faithful not to be distracted or discouraged by the perceived instability within the political sphere. Instead, he urged them to view the current period as an opportunity for consolidation and renewed purpose.
In his acceptance speech, Rotimi Ogunike, expressed deep appreciation for the trust placed in him and his team. He assured party members and leaders that the caretaker committee would remain focused on its responsibilities and not use its position for personal political gain. “We are here to drive the Labour Party to the next level,” Ogunike stated firmly. “Our role is to conduct credible congresses, build unity, and lay the groundwork for a stronger party. None of us on this committee will contest during the congresses—we are here solely to serve.”
Ogunike also revealed that the committee had already started preliminary work three days prior to the official inauguration, signaling their readiness to hit the ground running. He called on all members of the Labour Party to rally behind the new leadership, engage the grassroots, and work harder than ever to surpass the success of the 2023 general elections, in which the party made significant gains in Lagos.
“The task before us is not just about winning elections,” Ogunike said. “It’s about restoring hope, building structures that last, and reconnecting with the people of Lagos at every level, from the wards to the local governments to the entire state.”
With the formal installation of this new caretaker leadership, the Labour Party is positioning itself for a major comeback in Lagos. As the political landscape begins to shift ahead of 2027, the party hopes that this move will not only heal internal rifts but also energize its base for the battles ahead.