By CHARLES CHIJIOKE
Labour Party presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, Dr. Chibuzo Okereke, has formally welcomed the emergence of Hajja Bintu Konto as his running mate, declaring that her selection was based solely on competence, integrity and the overriding interest of Nigeria.
Afrilensnews reports that Okereke made the declaration in an official statement issued in Abuja on Saturday following the Labour Party’s ratification of Konto as its vice presidential candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
The development comes barely hours after the party officially unveiled Konto, a public health specialist and humanitarian, to complete its presidential ticket ahead of the next general election.
In the statement, Okereke described the appointment as another milestone in what he called the “Nigerians First Vision,” insisting that the decision reflected the Labour Party’s commitment to merit, inclusion, social justice and transformational leadership.
“Today marks another defining moment in our collective journey to build the Nigerians First Vision. It is with profound gratitude to God and an abiding sense of duty to our nation that I formally congratulate Hajja Bintu Konto as my Vice Presidential Candidate for the 2027 General Elections following her selection and ratification by the leadership of our great Party, the Labour Party.”
According to him, the choice of his running mate was guided by what would best serve Nigerians rather than political considerations.
“This decision was guided by only one consideration: the best interests of Nigeria and the Nigerian people. It is entirely consistent with the Labour Party’s enduring commitment to competence, integrity, inclusion, social justice, and transformational leadership.”
Okereke described Konto as “a renowned nurse, accomplished public health specialist, humanitarian, development expert, and compassionate mother,” whose career has focused on improving lives and strengthening communities.
He expressed confidence that she possesses the experience and leadership qualities required to help steer the country if elected.
“I have absolutely no doubt that she would bring extraordinary value, strategic, and compassionate insight to our presidential ticket and, by the grace of God, to the governance of our dear country.”
The Labour Party flag bearer also used the occasion to restate the philosophy behind his presidential campaign, saying every decision under his administration would prioritise the welfare of Nigerians.
“Our campaign is built on a simple but profound philosophy: Nigerians First. This is more than a campaign slogan; it is a governing philosophy that places the welfare, security, dignity, and prosperity of every Nigerian above every other consideration.”
He stressed that Konto’s emergence should not be viewed as a symbolic gender appointment but one earned through proven competence.
“The choice of Hajja Bintu Konto reflects this philosophy. She was not selected because she is a woman. She was selected because she is exceptionally qualified, eminently capable, and fully prepared to serve Nigeria with distinction as Vice President.”
Okereke argued that Nigeria cannot achieve sustainable national development without giving women greater opportunities to participate in governance.
“Mainstreaming women into leadership is not an act of political correctness or tokenism; it is a strategic imperative for national development.”
He further stated that women remain critical partners in nation-building, adding that excluding them weakens the country’s development potential.
“Women are not peripheral stakeholders in national development; they are indispensable partners in building the Nigeria of our dreams. Leaving women behind is like attempting to clap with one hand, it weakens our national capacity and limits our collective progress.”
The Labour Party candidate maintained that Konto embodies the values of integrity, service, resilience and compassion that his administration intends to institutionalise if elected.
He also thanked the leadership of the Labour Party for endorsing the ticket, particularly acknowledging the party’s National Leader, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, PhD, National Secretary, Rt. Hon. Iheanacho Obioma, the National Working Committee and other party leaders for their support throughout the selection process.
Okereke reaffirmed his commitment to building a nation where justice, opportunity and strong institutions would flourish, urging Nigerians to support the Labour Party’s vision for national renewal.
“Together, we shall restore trust, inspire Nigerians to believe again and build a Nigeria where every citizen has the opportunity to live in peace, dignity, prosperity and thrive in their various legitimate endeavours.”
The statement signals the Labour Party’s efforts to project an early campaign message centred on competence, inclusion and governance ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Political observers believe the emergence of a female running mate with a background in healthcare and humanitarian service could strengthen the party’s appeal among women, young voters and professionals, while intensifying political realignments in the months leading to the election.
