Julie Obeta has been unveiled as Labour Party’s deputy governorship candidate in Benue, marking a significant step for women in politics

The Labour Party has unveiled Julie Obeta as its deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 general elections in Benue State, describing the nomination as a major step towards strengthening women’s participation in governance.

Also read: Labour Party Unveils Okereke as 2027 Presidential Candidate

The announcement was made on Monday at the party’s secretariat along Otukpo Road in Makurdi, shortly after the emergence of Mathias Byuan as the party’s governorship candidate.

Speaking during the unveiling, Byuan said Obeta emerged through a consensus process following extensive consultations with party stakeholders across the state.

“We have consulted widely with the party stakeholders across the state and today they unanimously elected Mrs Julie Obeta as the first female governorship candidate who by the grace of God comes 2027 will be the first female deputy governor of Benue State,” he said.

The party noted that Julie Obeta’s emergence represents the first time a woman has been selected as a deputy governorship candidate on the Labour Party platform in Benue State.

Byuan said the decision reflects the party’s commitment to inclusiveness and broader representation in leadership positions.

He added that the party was focused on offering a transformative agenda aimed at revitalising Benue State’s economy if elected in 2027.

The Labour Party said the nomination aligns with its wider objective of creating more opportunities for women in politics and encouraging greater female participation in decision-making processes.

Julie Obeta brings significant political experience to the ticket. She previously served on the presidential campaign team of former President Goodluck Jonathan and was chairman of Okpokwu Local Government Area between 2012 and 2015.

She was also appointed as a special assistant by Hyacinth Alia in 2023 but declined the position.

Also read: Labour Party Blasts APC Over Otti Claims

Party leaders expressed confidence that the ticket would strengthen the Labour Party’s appeal among voters as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.