Kenneth Okonkwo, a former spokesperson for the Labour Party (LP) Presidential Campaign Organisation, has announced his departure from the party. Okonkwo, who joined LP in 2022, revealed his decision in a statement posted on his X handle on Saturday.
In his announcement, Okonkwo expressed disappointment with the party’s performance and its presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Okonkwo stated, “I no longer have the confidence that Peter Obi has what it takes to build a party that can win these kakistocrats and kleptocrats, and above all, he has proved that even if the people vote for him, he doesn’t have what it takes to secure the mandate.”
The former spokesperson cited several reasons for his exit, including the party’s failure to inspire the brand of leadership needed to address Nigeria’s challenges. He also pointed to Obi’s perceived lack of effort in building the party and resolving its internal leadership crisis.
Okonkwo’s statement, titled “Political Journey to a Great Nigeria,” outlined his commitment to a nation built on equity, justice, and fairness. He emphasized the need for a political party with a solid grassroots base to effectively challenge the current political establishment.
“We need a decisive leader who will be able to build such a party of integrity and character from the grassroots because, eventually, the majority of the people that will populate a government will proceed from the political party of the leader,” Okonkwo noted.
The former LP spokesman expressed disappointment in Obi’s handling of party affairs, particularly regarding the organization of an inclusive convention.
Okonkwo sai, “PO also publicly demanded that the Abure-led National Working Committee must organise an all-inclusive convention that will guarantee the participation of all members of the Labour Party in the choice of their leaders. This didn’t happen, and surprisingly, PO refused to disassociate himself from the shenanigans and criminal activities of the former NWC as their time had expired.”
He also criticized Obi’s lack of support for the Labour Unions’ efforts to maintain control of the party they founded. “I am shocked that PO 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,” Okonkwo stated.
Okonkwo made it clear that his decision to leave LP does not mean he is joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) or the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He remains committed to the Nigerian people and their aspirations for a better nation.
The former spokesperson called for a decisive, bold leader with integrity to confront corrupt politicians.
He also emphasized the importance of peaceful protests as a democratic right and urged the government to use wisdom and restraint in managing such demonstrations.
