Former Director-General of the Labour Party’s Presidential Campaign Organisation, Dr. Doyin Okupe, has officially announced that his political relationship with Peter Obi ended immediately after President Bola Tinubu emerged victorious in the 2023 general election.
During a press briefing in Lagos, Okupe disclosed that he had previously agreed with Obi not to accept any political appointment from him if he won the election.
This revelation comes amid backlash from Obi’s supporters, known as Obidients, who have been criticizing Okupe on social media for backing Tinubu’s policies.
Defending his stance, Okupe noted that his support for Tinubu is rooted in a broader commitment to Nigeria, not to any individual or political party.
“I supported Peter Obi out of a commitment to patriotism and nationalistic fervour, not because I don’t know who I am in national politics or where I come from,” Okupe stated.
He added that his agreement with Obi expired after the Supreme Court upheld Tinubu’s victory, underscoring that his political future is not tied to Obi’s ambitions.
Okupe also brushed aside allegations of rigging in the election, noting that such claims are common in Nigeria’s electoral history.
He compared the situation to the U.S., where despite allegations of rigging, the country remains stable.
Explaining his initial support for Obi, Okupe reiterated that his decision was driven by a belief in equity and justice, advocating for an Igbo presidency.
He made it known that his support was not because Obi was superior politically, but because he believed in the cause.
Despite the criticism, Okupe urged Obidients to adopt a broader perspective in the future, stating that he was never a “foolish politician” but one driven by principle and commitment.
