NLC says Peter Obi is free to leave Labour Party

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has made it clear that Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, is free to depart from the party if he desires to do so. This statement was conveyed by NLC spokesman Benson Upah on Sunday.

Upah reiterated the NLC’s stance on the leadership of Julius Abure, emphasizing that despite the union’s view of an ‘illegal’ national convention that reinstated Abure as the national chairman of the Labour Party, they do not recognize his leadership.

“Our position on this matter remains unchanged and unequivocal. Abure is not recognized by us. This is not about his removal. As far as we are concerned, he holds no legitimate status,” he stated.

In a related development, the Lagos Assembly of Labour Veterans and Trade Unionists, a group comprising retired workers, has called for the resignation of Julius Abure and NLC President Joe Ajaero due to their ongoing leadership conflict.

Peter Obi has reportedly been at odds with the Labour Party’s leadership concerning the conduct of the convention in Nnewi, Anambra State.

During a session on X, Obi expressed his frustrations, noting that he did not attend the national convention due to the party leadership’s failure to heed his plea for broader consultations with stakeholders before the event.

His recent statements have led to speculation that he may be contemplating a move to another political platform, despite being assured the 2027 ticket at the convention.

However, Upah clarified that the decision of whether Obi should remain or depart from the party lies with him, asserting that he has the freedom to shape his political future.

Describing the former Anambra governor as an asset, Upah stated that the NLC would not stand in Obi’s way if he opted to leave the party.

“The choice is entirely up to Mr. Obi. If he decides to part ways with the party, that is his prerogative.

“We cannot pass judgment on his decision. However, if he chooses to stay, it goes without saying that Peter Obi remains a valuable asset to us. I rest my case on that note,” Upah concluded