The Labour Party candidate for Ondo Central Senatorial District in the 2023 general election, Mr Adefolarin Oria, has expressed doubts over the party’s ability to secure electoral victory in 2027 due to internal divisions and leadership struggles.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday in Akure, Oria analysed the party’s structure, past electoral performances, and future prospects, highlighting issues that could hinder its success.
Oria argued that the way the party positions itself makes it difficult for people from diverse backgrounds to feel included.
“The way the party presents itself, as if it belongs to a specific group, makes it difficult for indigenous people from other regions to accept it,” he said.
He also pointed to leadership problems within the party, particularly those that surfaced ahead of the 2024 gubernatorial election in Ondo State.
According to him, internal disputes prevented the party from fielding a consensus candidate, leading to legal battles.
LP was entangled in a court case over two separate governorship candidates, Mr Sola Ebiseni and Mr Ayo Olorunfemi, with the judiciary eventually deciding the matter.
Oria stressed that true politics requires inclusivity, criticising the party’s leadership for being self-centred.
“Politics is about inclusiveness. Unfortunately, the leadership of our party is selfish.
“They need to bridge divides and engage all ethnic groups rather than being perceived as a party for a particular tribe.
“We must make our political party friendly and accommodating to all regions of the country.
“The problem in Ondo State is that the leadership operates in isolation, disregarding party members. But there is no leadership without the people,” he said.
He further criticised the party for appointing a state chairman who could not communicate in the indigenous language, arguing that such a move alienates the local population.
Oria warned that unless the Labour Party quickly restructures and embraces an inclusive approach, it would struggle to achieve any meaningful electoral success in 2027.
