Kenneth Okonkwo, the former spokesperson for the Labour Party’s presidential campaign in the 2023 elections, has officially left the party. Okonkwo’s decision is rooted in his dissatisfaction with Peter Obi, the party’s presidential candidate, and the ongoing crises within the Labour Party.
In his resignation statement, Okonkwo expressed deep frustration with both Obi and the Labour Party’s internal issues. He accused Obi of lacking the necessary leadership skills and vision to effectively guide the party. Okonkwo also criticized the current state of Nigerian politics, pointing fingers at the two dominant parties, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC). He labeled these parties as ineffective and responsible for the country’s economic troubles.
According to Okonkwo, the APC’s failures have left Nigerians with little hope, pushing them to protest for basic survival. He criticized the judiciary, calling it an “electoral bandit” that undermines democratic processes. Okonkwo argued that a robust political party with strong grassroots support is crucial to challenge the current leadership’s grip on power.
Okonkwo lamented that despite high hopes for the Labour Party following the 2023 elections, Obi’s lack of commitment to strengthening the party has led to widespread confusion and disappointment among its members. He recounted Obi’s failure to address key issues, including the organization of an inclusive convention and support for the Labour Unions, which has left the party struggling to define its future.
In his parting shot, Okonkwo voiced support for the Labour Unions and stakeholders fighting to reclaim the party’s direction but admitted a loss of confidence in Obi’s ability to lead effectively. He stated that he will continue his political journey independently, seeking to contribute to a vision for Nigeria without Peter Obi.
