Benue State’s Labour Party (LP) has declared itself the largest opposition force in the state as preparations for the 2027 general elections intensify. The announcement was made on Saturday by Hon. Philip Agbese, LP State Leader in Benue and member of the House of Representatives for Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, shortly after his arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja from Johannesburg, South Africa.
Speaking to reporters and supporters, Agbese confirmed the party’s new status, saying, “We are the biggest opposition party in Benue State today. The people have shown us where their hearts are. I say boldly that 2027 is in the hands of God’s people.” The declaration follows a series of defections and realignments that have bolstered the Labour Party’s presence nationwide and positioned it as the principal challenger to the ruling party in Benue.
Agbese used the platform to outline the party’s strategic approach for upcoming elections. He described the LP’s roadmap as a “quasi‑civil, people‑oriented” campaign that will focus on policy issues rather than attacks on the government or public institutions. “Our campaign as a party will be issue‑based. There will be zero attack on the government and public institutions. We will be direct and to the point on what our candidates have to offer the electorate – real solutions, not propaganda or empty promises,” he said.
The proposed strategy emphasizes respectful political engagement combined with extensive grassroots consultation. According to Agbese, the party will hold town‑hall meetings, conduct community dialogues, and develop practical policy programmes tailored to the needs of Benue’s residents. He stressed that such an approach aims to maintain civility while delivering concrete solutions to local challenges.
In addition to party matters, Agbese highlighted his personal record in the National Assembly. He cited legislative interventions and constituency projects that have impacted Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo, stating, “We have worked hard to deliver on our mandate… Our vision is to consolidate these achievements by ensuring that our party offers even better governance.” Key priority areas include sustainable agriculture, infrastructure development, quality healthcare, and youth empowerment programmes designed to generate tangible opportunities.
Agbese affirmed that LP candidates will seek to sustain successful initiatives while introducing innovative measures to address long‑standing problems, particularly for farmers and rural communities. He described the “quasi‑civil” nature of the party’s politics as an effort to engage “respectfully but firmly on issues of accountability and development,” urging Benue citizens to support leaders who “solve problems, not create more division.”
The Labour Party’s claim to being the largest opposition force in Benue underscores the shifting political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. Agbese called on “well‑meaning citizens” and proponents of good governance to rally behind the party, positioning the upcoming polls as a decisive moment for the state’s future. Media Talk Africa will continue to monitor developments as parties solidify their platforms and contest the next electoral cycle.
