A former spokesperson for the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council, Kenneth Okonkwo, has announced his departure from Peter Obi’s political camp, citing leadership issues within the party.
Okonkwo in a statement said he initially believed that Obi would “seize the momentum and build a solid party of integrity,” but his faith waned when Obi declared, “I didn’t promise Nigerians to build a strong Labour Party, but to solve Nigeria’s problems.”
Okonkwo questioned, “Does it mean Peter Obi is not aware that without a solid party base, we are heading nowhere politically?”
Okonkwo detailed several instances where Obi’s leadership fell short, including his failure to organise an inclusive convention for the party’s leadership selection.
Additionally, Okonkwo criticised Obi for not distancing himself from the controversial activities of the former National Working Committee.
“Every member of the Labour Party is confused today as to the future of the Labour Party because of the lack of leadership from PO,” Okonkwo lamented.
He also highlighted labour unions’ frustrations, stating, “Some of them are openly saying that PO is now the problem of LP.”
He said, “I have chosen to continue my political journey towards the envisioned great Nigeria without Peter Obi. My loyalty is always absolute to any leader I work with or follow. When I have doubts and can no longer offer 100% loyalty, I respectfully inform the leader.
“Joining his campaign was a significant step, and now that I cannot assure support for his future endeavors, it is my duty to inform everyone.
“With this announcement, I am now open to negotiations and consultations with like-minded individuals to determine the next steps in my political journey. For now, this does not include joining the APC or PDP but involves strengthening the Labour Party.
“We need a strong political party with a solid grassroots base to challenge the current kakistocrats and kleptocrats.
“We need a decisive leader who can build a party of integrity and character from the grassroots because, ultimately, the majority of government officials will come from the leader’s political party.”
Okonkwo also criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), asserting that their leadership “does not have what it takes to lead us to a great Nigeria.”
He accused them of crippling the country economically, politically, and in other indices, leaving the populace with no choice but to protest for survival. He stressed the need for a decisive leader who can build a party with integrity and character from the grassroots, as the lack of internal democracy within these parties produces incompetent and corrupt leaders.
Okonkwo emphasised his commitment to a better Nigeria, declaring, “I am committed, irreversibly, to a great Nigeria built on equity, justice, and fairness.” He stated his intentions to seek collaboration with like-minded individuals to achieve this vision and clarified that his decision has “nothing to do with any desire to join APC or PDP.”
Okonkwo urged the government to handle public protests with wisdom and restraint, noting that good governance is the best way to prevent unrest.
Sahara Reporters
