Former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial aspirant and Labour Party (LP) National Assembly candidate in 2023, Dr Ezeh Emmanuel Ezeh, says he is facing intense pressure to join the 2027 Ebonyi governorship race, but insists that competence—not zoning—will determine the Labour Party’s ticket.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Dr Ezeh dismissed reports of a brewing crisis in the Labour Party over zoning arrangements, describing them as the handiwork of “desperate politicians” attempting to import old habits from their former parties into the LP.

He argued that the Labour Party, under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti and Senator Esther Nenadi Usman, is enjoying “a new lease of freedom and peace,” having put behind it the era of internal disputes.

Dr Ezeh maintained that zoning has done more harm than good to Nigeria’s democratic development, stressing that capacity, integrity, and competence should guide leadership selection.

“Zoning has failed us. We need competence now before zoning. If our emphasis on merit and capacity is what some people call a crisis, then they are wrong,” he said.

He added that political contests are driven by interests and ideas, noting that the Labour Party in Ebonyi is undergoing a rebuilding process anchored on integrity and good governance.

On whether he will run for governor, Dr Ezeh acknowledged the mounting pressure but said he is still consulting.

“Our dream in Ebonyi is to enthrone leadership that works for the people, not someone chosen merely because of where he comes from. I am studying the political terrain. As an entrepreneur and strategist, I am not driven by ambition alone,” he stated.

He emphasized that public office should be tied to responsibility and service to the public interest.

On the Labour Party’s presidential ticket, Dr Ezeh clarified that although the party has zoned the position to the South, zoning does not eliminate the need for integrity, competence, and a strong track record.