2027: Labour Party declares Philip Agbese unopposed leader in Benue

The Labour Party (LP) in Benue State has officially declared Hon. Chief Philip Agbese, the member representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, as the undisputed leader of the party in the state.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Director of Media and Public Affairs of the Benue LP, Comrade Aluh Odeh, who also welcomed Agbese’s recent political realignment and growing influence within the party.

According to the statement, Agbese’s emergence as the party leader aligns with established political conventions, noting that as the highest elected Labour Party office holder in the state, he naturally assumes leadership of the party structure.

“By party convention and standard practice globally, Rep. Agbese, being the highest political office holder, naturally assumes leadership of the party in the state,” the statement read.

Odeh explained that the party had experienced setbacks after the 2023 general elections, attributing the decline to internal challenges and lack of adequate support from the former national leadership, which led to the exit of some members.

He, however, said the situation had changed with Agbese’s growing involvement, describing him as a unifying figure capable of repositioning the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The Labour Party in Benue State received an immediate boost the moment Chief Philip Agbese became associated with our structure. His presence has renewed confidence and strengthened our resolve to stage a major political comeback ahead of 2027,” Odeh stated.

Reaffirming Agbese’s position, the party dismissed any contrary claims regarding the leadership structure, insisting that his status remains valid and widely accepted within the state chapter.

“There is no dispute—Chief Philip Agbese is the leader of our party in Benue State. Any claims to the contrary are baseless and driven by personal interests, in disregard of the Supreme Court’s judgment,” the statement added.

The statement also reaffirmed the Benue chapter’s loyalty to the national leadership of the party under Senator Nenadi Usman, describing her leadership as a stabilising force for unity, discipline, and constitutional order.

“Senator Usman continues to inspire confidence across the Labour Party with her unwavering commitment to unity and internal democracy. Her leadership has earned the full support of the Benue chapter,” Odeh noted.

Odeh further said Agbese’s entry and growing influence had already begun to yield positive results, including improved morale and increased membership across the state.

“Chief Agbese brings a rare blend of experience, intellect, and grassroots appeal capable of transforming the party’s fortunes. He has become a rallying point for progressive forces seeking genuine change in Benue State,” he said.