By Abiola Olawale
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi has reacted to the decision of the party’s former presidential Campaign Council spokesman, Kenneth Okonkwo, to part ways with him.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, said despite dumping the Labour Party, Okonkwo remains his trusted ally.
He explained that Okonkwo’s differing opinion does not make him an enemy, but rather a strong voice and friend.
The former governor also appealed to Labour Party members and his supporters to stop attacking Okonkwo over his decision.
In a series of posts on his X account on Monday, Obi wrote: “Yesterday, I read my dear brother Kenneth Okonkwo’s open letter in which he expressed differing views with me on the skirmishes in our party. And today, I saw various responses to the letter.
“I want to, therefore, categorically and emphatically declare that Okonkwo remains my beloved brother and a trusted ally. I sternly caution against referring to him as a mole or making any negative remarks. Kenneth Okonkwo has stood by me through thick and thin, and his loyalty and commitment cannot be overstated or diminished.
“Disagreements and differing opinions are a natural part of any group, society, or movement, and it is essential to maintain a level of respect and decorum even when we disagree. Having differing views does not make someone an enemy, and it is crucial to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to personal attacks or negative remarks.
“In fact, to me personally, I don’t want to work with anyone who always agrees with me because, as a leader, learning and listening are critical components of leadership. I want to listen to those who have different opinions and try to convince them otherwise or take their advice if it is better.
“I urge all believers of a New Nigeria to remain strong, resilient, and focused, and to refrain from discouragement or negative remarks towards Barrister Kenneth Okonkwo or anyone who leaves or disagrees with our views, strategies, or tactics. My message is clear and simple: unity, respect, and civility must prevail, even in the face of disagreement and variance.”
The New Diplomat reports that this comes a few hours after Okonkwo announced his resignation from the Labour Party.
Okonkwo, in a press statement isaid his decision to dump the Party was due to the lingering internal strife and leadership crisis in the party.
Okonkwo, a popular actor turned politician, said he is disappointed that Obi shows a lack of leadership in putting the Labour Party in order.
He explained that some members of the Labour Party are equally confused about the party’s future due to a lack of leadership and direction from Obi. He admitted that when members look to him for guidance on Obi’s standpoint, he has nothing to say because he is unaware.
