By John Alechenu
ABUJA – Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Dr. Chibuzo Okereke, has explained that the selection of Hajja Bintu Konto as his running mate for the 2027 election was driven solely by competence and national interest.
In a statement issued in Abuja, on Saturday Okereke described Konto’s nomination, ratified by the party’s leadership, as “another defining moment” in the party’s push for a “Nigerians First” government.
He said, “Today marks another defining moment in our collective journey to build a Nigeria that works for Nigerians. It is with gratitude to God and a sense of duty that I congratulate Hajja Bintu Konto as my Vice Presidential Candidate.”
The LP Presidential candidate said the decision was guided by one consideration- “the best interests of Nigeria and Nigerians.” This, he added aligns with the Labour Party’s commitment to competence, integrity, inclusion and transformational leadership.
He described Konto as a nurse, public health specialist, humanitarian and development expert with a career devoted to improving lives and strengthening communities.
According to him, “Her credentials, expertise and record in public health, humanitarian response and development made this choice compelling and timely,” he said. “I have no doubt she will add extraordinary value to our ticket and, by God’s grace, to governance.”
Okereke stressed that the LP campaign is built on a “Nigerians First” philosophy that places citizens’ welfare, security, dignity and prosperity above all else.
“Leadership must be guided not by sentiment, patronage, ethnicity, religion or gender, but by competence, character and capacity to deliver results,” he stated.
He said Konto was not picked because she is a woman, but because she is qualified and prepared to serve as Vice President.
“This shows our conviction that when merit counts, capable women will occupy their rightful place at the highest levels of leadership,” he said.
According to him, excluding women weakens national capacity. “Nations that use the talents of both men and women build stronger institutions and more inclusive democracies. Women are indispensable partners in building the Nigeria we want. Leaving them behind is like clapping with one hand.”
Okereke equally said Konto has demonstrated courage, resilience, compassion and professional excellence in service. “She represents the values of integrity, service, inclusion and transformational leadership we want in government.”
The LP candidate expressed gratitude to Labour Party leaders, including, Dr. Alex Otti; National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman; and National Secretary, Rt. Hon. Iheanacho Obioma, for supporting the ticket.
He also urged party members and Nigerians to support the effort to build a just, secure and prosperous country.
“Together, we shall restore trust, inspire hope and build a Nigeria where every citizen can live in peace, dignity and prosperity,” he said
