The 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has clarified his absence at the LP’s National Convention, stating that his commitment lies in rebuilding Nigeria rather than creating a new party.
Speaking on X Space hosted by Parallel Facts on Friday, Obi explained that he ignored the convention due to the failure of the party leadership under Julius Abure to conduct thorough consultations with key stakeholders.
Emphasizing the importance of salvaging the party, the former Anambra governor reiterated his dedication to building a new Nigeria over establishing a new Labour Party.
“We promised to build Nigeria, we did not promise to build a New Labour Party,” Obi affirmed.
He also voiced support for establishing a structure for the ‘Obidient’ movement, citing it as a standard practice worldwide for movements to align themselves into blocs within the political process.
“It is the standard practice around the world where movements form themselves into blocs and are part of the political process,” Obi added.
The LP has been embroiled in factional disputes, with Abure’s leadership challenged by Apapa Lamidi and criticized by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC).
Despite controversy, Abure was reelected during the convention held in Anambra State.