NLC Asserts Peter Obi’s Freedom to Leave Labour Party Amid Leadership Struggles

In the midst of internal turmoil within the Labour Party (LP), the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has reaffirmed its stance that Peter Obi, the party’s presidential candidate, is free to depart from its ranks. This declaration comes as tensions escalate over the legitimacy of Julius Abure’s tenure as the LP’s national chairman.

Despite the LP’s national convention that saw Abure reinstated, the NLC maintains its refusal to recognize his leadership, labeling it as ‘illegal.’ Benson Upah, the NLC spokesman, reiterated the union’s stance, stating, “Our position on this matter is clear and has not changed. Abure remains unknown to us. It is not a question of removal. As far as we know, he does not exist.”

The call for leadership change within the LP is echoed by a group of retired workers under the Lagos Assembly of Labour Veterans and Trade Unionists. They have demanded the resignation of both Julius Abure and NLC President, Joe Ajaero, citing their contentious leadership struggle.

Peter Obi’s frustration with the LP’s leadership was palpable during an X Space session organized by Parallel Facts, where he highlighted his absence from the convention in Nnewi, Anambra State. Obi cited the party’s failure to heed his call for broader consultation as his reason for not attending the event.

Speculations regarding Obi’s potential departure from the LP have intensified following his remarks, with suggestions that he may be exploring alternative political platforms. However, Upah emphasized that Obi’s decision to stay or leave the party should not be subject to debate, affirming his freedom to determine his political destiny.

While acknowledging Obi as an asset, Upah reiterated the NLC’s stance that they would not obstruct his departure should he choose to defect to another political platform. “The right of choice is available to Mr. Obi. If he chooses to leave the party, that is his preference. We can’t sit in judgment over him on that. But if he chooses to remain, of course, Peter Obi is an asset any day,” he concluded.