The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, has dismissed claims that former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi has left the party, affirming that he remains a committed member of the LP.

In an interview with Daily Independent, Tanko also revealed that no fewer than seven political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have approached Obi to run on their platforms ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Obi is still a member of the Labour Party. He has not left the Labour Party. Strategically, many parties are interested in him. I can confirm on record that I know of seven parties, including the PDP, who want him to run under their banner,” Tanko said.

He explained that the high level of political interest means Obi is carefully considering all options before making a decision.

“His Excellency has to analyse the party under which he may run and then make a pronouncement. He consults widely with everyone who believes in him. He’s not a one-man person; consultation is key,” Tanko added.

Addressing criticisms that Obi has not handled internal crises within the Labour Party, Tanko countered that those making such claims are often the same individuals fueling the unrest.

Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, has claimed that the current crisis in the Labour Party (LP) is the result of external infiltrators aiming to destabilise the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

“The challenges exist because those accusing him infiltrated the party and caused chaos, just as they do in every political party. When you point a finger, the other four are pointing back at you. While His Excellency is trying to hold the party together, they continue to create crises,” Tanko alleged.

He highlighted several instances of alleged sabotage, including the controversy surrounding letters reportedly sent to INEC by party officials.

“You can see what is happening. How can it be that a party’s sitting secretary sends a letter to INEC, and the Commission ignores it? Then the same people claim the letter is fake, even though the author admits to writing it. Can someone fake their own signature? It happened,” he said.

Tanko further accused these actors of obtaining court orders to deepen divisions within the LP.

“They go to court to secure kangaroo judgments. That’s what they do; they are behind these disruptions,” he added.

Obi Doing His Best to Keep LP United

Tanko insisted that Peter Obi has remained committed to stabilising the Labour Party despite the turbulence caused by saboteurs. He cited Obi’s open support for George Muoghalu, the LP candidate in the Anambra governorship election, as evidence of his dedication to the party.

“His Excellency has done his best, and continues to do so, to ensure the party remains united. That is why he supported George Muoghalu in the Anambra State election — to show he is keeping his party together,” Tanko said.

He also clarified that, contrary to speculation, Obi refused to endorse the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate.

“Some thought that in the election he would support the ADC candidate. People even think Peter Obi is more of an ADC member now, but that is not true,” he added.