By Simeon OSAJIE
Former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA), Rt. Hon. Elizabeth Uyimwen Ativie on Saturday, 6th December, 2025 returned unopposed as State Chairman of the Labour Party (LP).
The State Congress which took place at the party secretariat at No. 28 Ogbelaka Street, Off Sakponba Road, Benin City, the state capital, was supervised by a planning committee from the National Headquarters of the party, led by Mr. Paul Omo-Okojie, who served as the Chairman of the Electoral Committee.
The congress was duly monitored by a delegation from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) led by the Head of Department, INEC Edo State, to ensure credibility and transparency to the exercise.
INEC delegation
Despite most of the aspirants including the State Chairman, Hon. Ativie running unopposed, the Electoral Committee ensured that due process was followed, in line with the party’s established guidelines.
After a thorough process of accreditation and voting, Rt. Hon. Elizabeth Uyimwen Ativie was reelected State Chairman of the party while Uwadiae Odigie emerged Deputy State Chairman (South), Dr. Neketon Franklin – Deputy State Chairman (Central), Dr. Sam Enaboekpen – Deputy State Chairman (North) as well as other members of the State Executive Committee (SEC).
Speaking after her emergence, the State Chairman of the party, Rt. Hon. Elizabeth Uyimwen Ativie commended the peaceful and orderly conduct of the congress, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening unity and restoring harmony within the party.
She applauded INEC officials, security agencies and observers for their presence, noting that their participation is a clear affirmation that the Abure-led National Working Committee (NWC) remains the only recognised and legitimate leadership of the Labour Party in Nigeria.
While expressing deep appreciation to party faithful across Edo State for their loyalty, especially in the face of what she described as failed attempts by opposition forces and their agents to sow discord within the party, Hon. Ativie emphasized that the successful congresses at all levels in Edo State and across Nigeria have reinforced LP’s position as one united family.
Rt. Hon. Ativie further declared that with these congresses now concluded nationwide, the Labour Party is fully prepared and strategically positioned for victory in the 2027 General Election and the 2028 Edo State Governorship Election.
She extends gratitude to all stakeholders, delegates, observers, and supporters who contributed to the success of this historic exercise.
Earlier, the party has successfully concluded its congresses across the 192 wards and 18 local government areas of the State, marking a major milestone in the party’s ongoing efforts to deepen internal democracy, strengthen grassroots structures, and reposition the party for future electoral victories.
In accordance with the guidelines issued by the National Leadership of the Party, led by National Chairman, Barr. Julius Abure, the Edo State Congress exercise commenced with the Ward Congresses on Tuesday, 2nd December, 2025 followed by the Local Government Congresses held on Thursday, 4th December.