By Adesakin Adefemi
The Labour Party (LP) has formally apologized to Nigerians for presenting Peter Obi as its presidential candidate in the 2023 election, describing the decision as a monumental blunder that has had far-reaching consequences for the party and the country at large.
This admission comes after Obi’s shock defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which the LP sees as a welcome relief from prolonged internal strife and a chance to reboot its image.
In a statement, LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, revealed that the party had parted ways with Obi since September 2024, citing irreconcilable differences and a breakdown in their relationship.
The party accused Obi and Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, of masterminding an insurrection against the party leadership, plunging it into crisis and creating an atmosphere of uncertainty.
The LP claimed it had been aware of Obi’s disconnection from the party, but wondered why he took so long to make the move. “We wondered why it took them this long to make the move,” the statement said, adding that the party now considers itself “liberated” by Obi’s exit and ready to move forward.
The party expressed surprise that Governor Otti, despite being suspended, had not followed Obi out of the party.
The LP also dismissed Obi’s formal reception by the ADC in Enugu as poorly attended and largely boycotted by key stakeholders, indicating a significant decline in his political influence and clout.
The Labour Party argued that the South-East region suffered politically after backing Obi in the 2023 election, citing inadequate ministerial appointments and marginalization in infrastructure allocation.
The party claimed that the region was shortchanged due to Obi’s lack of clout and inability to deliver on his campaign promises.
In a striking admission, the Labour Party apologized to Nigerians for fielding Obi as its presidential candidate, describing the decision as a major political error that had far-reaching consequences. “We gave Nigerians a candidate we thought was good for the nation in 2023, but time has proved that we made the greatest political mistake,” the party said, acknowledging its misjudgment.
The LP assured Nigerians that it is working on identifying new prospects ahead of future elections, expressing optimism about its future and commitment to serving the people.
The party’s apology has sparked intense reactions on social media, with many Nigerians weighing in on the development and calling for accountability.
