The Labour Party‘s newly appointed caretaker chairman, Senator Esther Nenadi Usman, has called on the party’s leadership to prioritize unity and cooperation as they steer the party through a critical rebuilding phase.
Naija News reports that Usman made this appeal while inaugurating the Labour Party’s Caretaker Committee in Abuja, emphasizing the importance of shared vision and commitment in overcoming challenges and repositioning the party as a beacon of hope for Nigerians.
During her speech, Usman highlighted the enormity of the task ahead, stating, “As members of the Caretaker Committee, our mission is clear. We are here to lay the groundwork for a party that can bring real change and relief to the suffering masses. Our task is temporary, but it is demanding.”
Acknowledging the complexity of rebuilding the party, Usman stressed that revitalizing an established political structure can be more challenging than starting anew.
She called on committee members to roll up their sleeves and be prepared for intensive work, including the possibility of short-notice meetings.
“For those of us with the means, this is the time to step up and help. This is self-sacrifice, and I know many of you are committed to this cause. I didn’t expect to be named Chairman when I traveled to Abia, but I saw it as an honor and a call to serve, which is why I accepted,” she added.
Reflecting on her unexpected appointment as chairman, Usman recounted how she had traveled to Abia without anticipating this role but accepted the position as a service to the party and the nation.
One of her first priorities, she said, would be reconciliation, urging committee members to reach out to aggrieved party members and bring them back into the fold.
“We want to reposition the Labour Party to provide a strong and vibrant opposition because democracy cannot thrive without active oversight.
“Our goal is not to stir trouble but to ensure that the government remains accountable and delivers on its promises to the Nigerian people. Through constructive criticism, we can help ensure that Nigerians get a better deal,” Usman emphasized.
She also spoke passionately about the broader vision of the Labour Party, a vision of a united and peaceful Nigeria where people can live without fear, where banditry and insecurity are no longer daily threats, and where economic prosperity is accessible to all.
“We envision a country where the youth are employed and where education is a priority, ensuring no child is left out of school.
“I firmly believe that under Labour Party leadership, these goals can be achieved, not in the distant future, but in our time,” Usman declared.
Usman framed the committee’s work as part of a larger mission to rescue not just the Labour Party but also Nigeria’s democracy.
She acknowledged the interest their efforts have garnered from across the political spectrum and insisted that if the committee performs its duties well, the Labour Party can become a refuge for disillusioned and disenfranchised Nigerians.
As she urged her colleagues to approach their role with integrity and humility, Usman reminded them that their actions would be closely monitored by the public, particularly by younger generations who have rallied around the “Obidient” movement.
“Our sacrifice must be absolute,” she concluded, warning against exaggerated expectations while reiterating the committee’s focus on rebuilding the party with a view to inclusivity and national development.
In her final appeal, Usman called on committee members to remain open to ideas from all corners and to view their task as a serious mandate to serve not only the Labour Party but also the broader interests of the Nigerian people.