The Labour Party (LP) has officially responded to Peter Obi’s defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), framing the development as a long-awaited relief for the party.
In a statement titled “Labour Party Finally Liberated by Peter Obi’s Defection”, National Publicity Secretary Obiora Ifoh critiqued Obi’s address at the Enugu defection ceremony and raised questions about what the former presidential candidate plans to offer Nigerians through his new political alignment.
The LP also attributed the prolonged internal tensions within the party to Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti, accusing the duo of orchestrating disruptions against the leadership of Julius Abure. According to the party, these actions had created instability that hampered LP’s cohesion and growth.
Observing the Enugu event, the party noted a notable absence of prominent political and traditional leaders from the South East, highlighting concerns about the credibility and appeal of Obi’s future political endeavors.
The statement elaborated:
“The leadership of the Labour Party acknowledges the defection of its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, along with some supporters, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). We also observed Obi’s lackluster speech and are left questioning what he now offers Nigerians.
“For us in Labour Party, this day has been long anticipated. Since September 2024, we have gradually parted ways with Obi and certain loyalists in the National Assembly. Today, the party is finally liberated by this departure, and we consider it a blessing.
“The internal crisis of LP was fueled by Peter Obi and Governor Alex Otti, who supported an insurrection against the Julius Abure-led administration. We had anticipated Otti would eventually follow Obi out of the party; it is not too late for him to align with his political leader.
“The Enugu event witnessed minimal participation from prominent political and traditional institutions in the South East. Those present are political figures who would face challenges winning in their wards if elections were held now. This reflects potential hurdles for Obi’s presidential or vice-presidential ambitions.
“Finally, we urge Nigerians to keep a close eye on the Labour Party. We presented a candidate we believed in for 2023, but time has revealed otherwise. We now seek the nation’s forgiveness and are committed to identifying strong candidates capable of restoring Nigeria to its former glory.”
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