The leadership of the Labour Party (LP) has reacted to the defection of its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The party described Obi’s defection as a “liberation” and a blessing in the future.
In a statement signed by Obiora Ifoh, the party’s National Publicity Secretary on Wednesday, the party expressed relief at Obi’s exit, claiming it had effectively parted ways with him and his “disgruntled followers” as far back as September 2024.
In a surprising turn, the party apologised to the Nigerian electorate for fielding Obi in the 2023 general election.
READ ALSO: 2027: Peter Obi officially defects to ADC
The party stated that the party made a “great political mistake” in presenting a candidate they now deem unfitting for the nation’s needs.
“We gave Nigerians a candidate we thought was good for the nation in 2023, but time has since proved that we made the greatest political mistake,” said the party.
“We plead for forgiveness from Nigerians. We are already working out the best prospect that we hope will bring Nigeria back to its glorious days.”
The party leadership dismissed the formal defection ceremony held earlier today at the Nike Lake Resort in Enugu as a “charade.”
The party alleged that the event was largely boycotted by prominent political and traditional institutions in the Southeast, describing those in attendance as “political spent forces” with no grassroots influence.
The party further warned that Obi’s 2027 ambitions are a “failed project from inception”, claiming he has lost the “charm” that fueled the 2023 Obidient movement.
The party identified Obi and the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, as the primary architects of the internal crisis that has rocked the LP.
While Otti has stated he remains in the Labour Party to “reposition” it, the LP leadership noted that he remains under suspension and urged him to follow Obi to the ADC.
The party accused Obi and Otti of sponsoring “insurrection” against the Julius Abure leadership.
The LP claimed it was already on the verge of expelling Obi before his defection, following the suspension of several lawmakers loyal to him.
The party argued that Obi’s 2023 run led to the Southeast losing out in the current federal administration, citing the “paltry” five ministerial slots given to the zone.
Despite the high-profile exit, the LP insists it is now in a stronger position to prepare for the 2027 elections.
READ ALSO: Peter Obi declares 2027 presidential bid, rules out vice-presidential slot
The party said it believes it can now focus on a “stand-alone” strategy without the distractions of internal factions or coalition talks.
“The party is finally liberated by this defection and as Party leaders, we count it as a blessing.”
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