Ace broadcaster, Michael Bush Mbaba, has emerged as the Labour Party governorship candidate in Akwa Ibom State following a successful screening exercise held today in Abuja.
Reacting to the development, Bush expressed excitement over his appearance before the Labour Party National Screening Committee, chaired by the party’s National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman.
According to him, the screening exercise marks a major milestone in his ambition to serve as Governor of Akwa Ibom State beginning from May 29, 2027.
Bush thanked his supporters and political associates for their commitment and encouragement so far, while urging them to intensify efforts as the race progresses.
In a statement jointly signed by the committee’s National Chairman, Nenadi Esther Usman, and National Secretary, Iheanacho Obioma, the Labour Party National Screening Committee approved eight aspirants to contest in the primaries across different states, while two contenders Emmanuel Friday Ben from Akwa Ibom State and Prince C. Chinwo from Rivers State were disqualified after failing the screening process.
According to the statement, the screening was conducted in line with the Labour Party constitution, the party’s 2026 electoral guidelines, and other established procedures guiding the nomination process.
Among those cleared is Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, who was granted a waiver by the party’s National Working Committee and exempted from appearing physically before the panel in recognition of his position as the party’s national leader.
Also cleared were Byuan Terwase Mathias for Benue State, Gbefwi Gaza Jonathan for Nasarawa State, Nathan Sanda Jnr for Taraba State, Dr. Aji Kolomi for Yobe State, and Chima Ernest Boms for Rivers State.
The committee commended all aspirants for their orderly conduct during the screening process and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, fairness, and due process ahead of the primaries.