The National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Senator Esther Nenadi Usman, has called on the political class to put national interest above partisan and political considerations.
Usman, who spoke at the sidelines of the 80th birthday of former Plateau State governor, Senator Jonah Jang, said while political competition is an essential ingredient of democracy, it should not be allowed to degenerate into bitterness, hatred or the destruction of the country’s social fabric.
The National Chairman, in a statement by the National Chairman of Labour Party, Ken Asogwa, advised that the 2027 general election should be a contest of ideas, competence and character, and not war.
“When elections are over, we must all return to the same Nigeria. That is why patriotism must always be greater than politics,” she said.
The former Finance Minister added that Nigerians deserve leaders who unite rather than divide, inspire hope instead of fear, and build bridges across political, ethnic and religious lines.
“Our political parties may be different, but our country is one.
“We owe future generations the responsibility of conducting politics without destroying the bonds that hold our nation together,” she advised.
Senator Usman called on politicians and their supporters to reject inflammatory rhetoric and embrace mutual respect.
“History does not remember those who shouted the loudest. It remembers those who built the strongest institutions, protected democracy and put their country first,” she stated, adding that no democratic system can flourish where intolerance replaces dialogue.
“We must disagree without becoming enemies.
“Democracy flourishes where there is tolerance, respect for differing opinions and an unwavering commitment to peace,” Senator Usman said.
She described Senator Jang as a patriot whose decades of service in both the military and democratic governance have earned him a respected place in Nigeria’s history, noting that the former governor’s career exemplifies discipline, courage, sacrifice and dedication to national service.
“At 80, Senator Jonah Jang represents a generation of leaders whose lives remind us that public office is ultimately about service, honour and legacy.
“We celebrate not only his longevity but also his enduring contributions to nation-building,” she added.
