Kenneth Okonkwo, spokesperson for the Labour Party presidential campaign in the 2023 general election, has severed ties with the party, citing a lack of leadership and capacity from the party's presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
Okonkwo blamed Obi and the ongoing crisis within the party for his departure. He also criticized the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing them of leading Nigeria into economic decline.
In a letter released on Sunday, Okonkwo stated that the APC has left Nigerians with no option but to protest, as they see no hope for the future. He emphasized the need for a strong political party with a grassroots base to challenge what he described as "kakistocracy and kleptocrats."
Okonkwo stressed the importance of a decisive leader who can secure victory and ensure free and fair elections, arguing that current leaders are unwilling to conduct such elections. He labeled the judiciary as "electoral bandits" who undermine democratic processes.
Reflecting on the 2023 election, Okonkwo claimed it was stolen and criticized the judiciary for abusing the judicial process. He called for a leader with integrity, charisma, and bravery to mobilize the people and secure democratic victory.
Okonkwo expressed disappointment in Peter Obi, whom he initially believed would build a strong Labour Party. He criticized Obi for failing to organize an inclusive convention and for not addressing internal party issues. Okonkwo accused Obi of not supporting Labour Unions and failing to combat attempts to hijack the party.
Concluding his statement, Okonkwo declared his intention to continue his political journey independently of Peter Obi, expressing his lack of confidence in Obi's ability to lead the party to victory against entrenched political elites.
