The Labour Party (LP) has officially reacted to the defection of its former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing his exit as a long-anticipated development and a “liberation” for the party.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Labour Party said Obi’s defection did not come as a surprise, insisting that the party and the former Anambra State governor had effectively parted ways months ago due to unresolved internal crises and leadership disagreements.
Labour Party: Obi’s Exit Was Inevitable
Reacting through its national leadership, the Labour Party claimed that the persistent factional disputes within the party were largely fuelled by Obi and some of his loyalists, stressing that his formal exit only confirmed an already broken relationship.
Peter Obi’s departure finally liberates the Labour Party from unnecessary internal distractions.
We have moved on long before now,” the party said.
LP leaders further argued that the party had lost effective control and unity following the 2023 general elections, adding that Obi’s influence became a source of division rather than cohesion.
Party Mocks Defection, Questions Political Future
The Labour Party also took a swipe at Obi’s defection to the ADC, describing his defection speech as unimpressive and lacking in fresh ideas capable of addressing Nigeria’s current political and economic challenges.
According to the party, the choice of ADC as a new political platform raises serious questions about Obi’s long-term strategy and his ability to mobilise nationwide support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
LP Apologises to Nigerians Over 2023 Candidacy
In a rare and controversial move, the Labour Party reportedly apologised to Nigerians over its decision to field Peter Obi as its presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, admitting that the choice may have been a “political miscalculation.”
The party said it is now focused on rebuilding, rebranding, and repositioning itself as a credible alternative ahead of future elections.
Peter Obi Joins ADC Ahead of 2027
Peter Obi officially announced his defection to the ADC earlier this week, citing the need for a broader political coalition and a more stable platform to challenge Nigeria’s dominant political parties ahead of 2027.
His defection has continued to generate mixed reactions across the political space, with supporters hailing the move as strategic, while critics view it as risky.
What This Means for 2027 Elections
Political analysts believe Obi’s move to the ADC could reshape opposition politics in Nigeria, depending on how successfully he builds alliances and consolidates grassroots support beyond his 2r023 voter base.
For the Labour Party, Obi’s exit marks a defining moment as the party attempts to reinvent itself without its most prominent political figure.
