Peter Obi Should Build on Labour Party’s Success, Not Abandon It – Victor Umeh

In a recent statement, Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, has dismissed ongoing speculations that Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Labour Party (LP), is considering leaving the party. Speaking at an extended stakeholders’ meeting in Umuahia on Thursday, Umeh described efforts to persuade Obi to abandon LP as a “wild goose chase.”

Umeh emphasized that Obi’s success in the 2023 elections was significantly due to the Labour Party’s platform and suggested that it would be disrespectful for him to leave. Despite rumors that Obi might be under pressure to return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and potentially seek their ticket for the 2027 elections, Umeh believes Obi’s focus should be on strengthening LP rather than abandoning it.

“Wooing Peter Obi out of the Labour Party will not be the right thing because LP gave him the limelight with which Nigerian people embraced him in the last election,” Umeh said. “Those who are calling on him to abandon the Labour Party may be on a wild goose chase.”

Umeh also praised Obi and Governor Alex Otti of Abia State for their efforts to revitalize the Labour Party, noting the importance of the Umuahia meeting in addressing crucial party issues. He highlighted concerns about the previous National Working Committee’s lack of recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which led to their decision to correct the situation.

“We are happy that issues affecting the party have been addressed. It was necessary to rectify the situation, as continuing with a faulty foundation would be unwise,” Umeh added.