The Julius Abure-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the Labour Party has downplayed reports that its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is set to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
This follows reports that some of Obi’s loyalists have begun mobilising ahead of a possible declaration.
According to a party source in Abuja, Obi allegedly met with the ADC National Chairman, Ralphs Okey Nwosu(reported as David Mark in some quarters), where discussions were held on renewing ties with the coalition. The source claimed the party had given Obi a deadline about three weeks ago to decide on joining the ADC, prompting preparations for a declaration rally reportedly slated for December 31 in Enugu.
However, reacting to the speculation, the Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, said the party would not issue any definitive statement until Obi personally speaks on the matter.
He noted that defection is common in Nigerian politics and would not destabilise the Labour Party if it happens.
“We cannot fully comment on that until we hear from Obi. Anybody can defect from anywhere to anywhere; it is normal in Nigerian politics. Labour Party doesn’t see it as a big deal,” Ifoh stated.
The spokesman added that any such move would be a personal political decision, not a reflection of institutional failure within the party, stressing that the Labour Party would continue to thrive.
While expressing preference for Obi to remain in the party, Ifoh advised reconciliation rather than exit.
“The wisest thing for him to do is to stay back and work with the party that gave him the spread he got in 2023. He should reconcile with the leadership and move on from there. But if he prefers to jump from one party to another, we wish him all the best,” he added.
The party says it is awaiting an official statement from Peter Obi before making further comments.