by Ola Williams
Former spokesman of the Labour Party (LP) Presidential Council, Kenneth Okonkwo, has announced his departure from the party and its presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi. Okonkwo attributed his decision to what he described as a “lack of decisive leadership,” which he believes has left the LP in disarray.
Having previously been a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) before defecting to the LP in 2023, Okonkwo emphasized that despite leaving the Labour Party, he remains committed to the Nigerian people and their aspirations for a better future.
“The importance of good governance and the right to protest cannot be overstated,” Okonkwo asserted, challenging the government to address the root causes of public discontent.
Clarifying his decision, Okonkwo noted, “There is absolutely nothing personal with my decision to adjust my relationship with Mr. Peter Obi. It is 100 percent based on principles and my conviction that we need a more decisive, bold, brave leader with integrity and team spirit.”
He criticized Peter Obi for his perceived inability to galvanize the Labour Party to effectively challenge the current political establishment. Okonkwo revealed that his decision to leave the party came after a series of disheartening experiences and perceived leadership failures within the party.
In an open letter to his countrymen, Okonkwo reiterated his unwavering commitment to his political journey towards a great Nigeria.
He stressed his dedication to building a great Nigeria based on equity, justice, and fairness. Okonkwo also lamented the current state of political affairs, criticizing the ruling APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for failing to lead the country effectively.
“My disillusionment with the Labour Party and Peter Obi’s approach to leadership and party management became unbearable,” he explained.
Reflecting on his initial high hopes for the Labour Party following the 2023 general elections, Okonkwo expressed disappointment in Peter Obi’s leadership. “Obi’s public declaration that he never promised to build a strong Labour Party, his failure to organize an inclusive party convention, and his refusal to disassociate from the alleged corrupt activities of the National Working Committee became worrisome,” Okonkwo stated.
“I am shocked that Peter Obi could not openly support the noble efforts of the Labour Unions who founded the Labour Party as a base to fight for the welfare of workers,” he added.
Okonkwo concluded by affirming his intention to continue his political journey independently, focusing on uniting like-minded individuals and stakeholders who share his vision for a great Nigeria.
