In a recent development, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has reaffirmed his commitment to remain within the party despite mounting speculations suggesting otherwise.
His statement comes in the wake of discussions regarding his potential departure from the LP.
During a philanthropic event held on Sunday, where he donated a borehole to the Pantami Sheep Market in Gombe State, Peter Obi addressed the ongoing discourse surrounding his political allegiance.
He emphasized his unwavering dedication to the peaceful resolution of internal party matters, emphasizing his allegiance to the Labour Party.
The former Governor of Anambra State responded to remarks made by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), stating that he is free to explore other political options. Despite these assertions, Peter Obi iterated his loyalty to the LP, dismissing rumors of a possible defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
He said, “No, there is no such thing. I’m for peace, I like peace. I believe we are one people. Our concentration should be on peace, and I believe that we will resolve all situations.
“I only advocated for peace. I’m a man who believes in peace and unity. I believe that there is no difference between me and others but I have the grace of the Almighty.
“The Labour Party is not the problem of Nigeria; the problem of Nigeria is beyond the Labour Party, so my focus is on Nigeria. My promise is a new Nigeria, and that new Nigeria is where I’m focused, and we must remain focused on it.
“If it is not about the leadership of Nigeria, I wouldn’t have provided this water. Let’s talk about how people will live and eat; I assure you that the Labour Party will resolve those issues –it is family, no family without a fight, and no individual is perfect.
“That is why I’m coming down to the community. I could have sent someone to do this, but I said no, I am going to the communities and embracing them, talking to them and knowing how to solve their problems.
“I have said it before, I’m not desperate to be president, I’m desperate to see Nigeria working for poor people. It is important for me because we cannot continue this way.
“The poor people in this country are suffering a lot and I am urging all leaders –in and out of office, this is time for us to listen, time to work with them (the poor), time to feel a bit of their pain.”
Regarding potential collaborations with other political figures, such as former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Peter Obi redirected attention to immediate concerns, prioritizing national progress over future electoral ambitions.
He said, “Well, I’m more interested now in Nigeria’s success today than tomorrow. We are always concentrating on the election rather than what Nigerians are going through. My commitment is about Nigerians living in a better society, given a better life, and that’s my concern.”
Speaking further, Obi said he is visiting various states of the country to meet the needs of people, especially during the Ramadan fasting by the Muslim faithful.
