Calls for Peter Obi to Leave Labour Party Are Misguided, Says Senator Umeh

Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, has firmly dismissed attempts to persuade Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s (LP) 2023 presidential candidate, to leave the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

Umeh, addressing an extended stakeholders’ meeting of the Labour Party in Umuahia, stated that such efforts are futile and reflect a misunderstanding of Obi’s political journey and commitment to the party.

During the meeting, Umeh highlighted the pivotal role that the Labour Party played in elevating Obi’s political profile during the 2023 presidential elections.

He emphasised that Obi’s significant traction and popularity among Nigerian voters were largely due to the platform and opportunities provided by the Labour Party.

Umeh argued that it would be inappropriate and ungrateful for Obi to abandon the party that supported him at a crucial juncture in his political career.

Senator Umeh’s remarks come amidst growing speculation that Peter Obi is facing pressure to return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he might be promised a ticket to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next general elections, bolstered by the backing of influential PDP figures.

However, Umeh believes that Obi’s best course of action is to strengthen the Labour Party and enhance its position as a formidable political force ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Encouraging Peter Obi to leave the Labour Party is misguided because it was this party that provided the platform for his rise in national politics,” Umeh asserted.

“Obi should focus on building the Labour Party and continue to advocate for the values and policies that resonate with the Nigerian electorate. Those suggesting he should abandon the party are merely engaging in wishful thinking.”

Umeh, who is also a prominent Labour Party leader and former national chairman of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), praised Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti for their decisive efforts to strengthen the Labour Party.

He commended them for convening the Umuahia stakeholders’ meeting, which he described as a critical step in addressing key challenges and making strategic decisions for the party’s future.

“We are pleased that the meeting in Umuahia addressed several issues affecting the Labour Party,” Umeh noted.

“No organisation can thrive under questionable leadership, and it was imperative for us to tackle the lack of recognition of our last National Working Committee (NWC) by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The reality was that the NWC’s tenure had expired, and persisting with an unrecognised leadership would have been counterproductive.

Peter Obi and Governor Alex Otti showed great leadership and courage in steering the party towards this necessary reform.”

Senator Umeh also stressed the importance of internal cohesion and strong leadership within the Labour Party to ensure its continued relevance and success.

He argued that the stakeholders’ meeting was a pivotal moment in unifying the party and setting it on a path to address the aspirations of its members and supporters.

“The Labour Party has a responsibility to its members and the broader Nigerian public to operate with transparency, integrity, and a commitment to democratic principles,” Umeh continued.

“The actions taken by Obi and Otti to convene this stakeholders’ meeting are commendable steps towards achieving these goals.

Their efforts have effectively salvaged the party from potential disarray and laid a solid foundation for future growth.”

Umeh’s statements reflect a broader sentiment within the Labour Party that prioritises building on the momentum generated in the 2023 elections rather than seeking shortcuts through alliances with other parties.

He believes that with a robust and strategic approach, the Labour Party can position itself as a credible alternative to the dominant political parties in Nigeria.

Looking ahead, Umeh encouraged Labour Party members and supporters to remain steadfast in their commitment to the party’s principles and to continue working towards a common goal of advancing good governance and accountability in Nigeria.

He emphasised that the strength of the Labour Party lies in its grassroots support and the dedication of its members to the cause of positive change.

“The Labour Party must continue to stand for the people, and Peter Obi’s role in this journey is critical,” Umeh concluded.

“We have seen what is possible when we unite behind a shared vision, and it is our duty to build on that foundation to create a stronger, more inclusive political landscape for all Nigerians.”

Senator Umeh’s remarks serve as a clear message to those urging Obi to abandon the Labour Party: that true political progress comes from commitment and continuity, not from opportunistic shifts in allegiance.

As the Labour Party moves forward, the focus remains on consolidating its gains and preparing to be a significant contender in the 2027 elections, with Peter Obi playing a central role in its future strategies.