LP Crisis: Stakeholders read Peter Obi the Riot Act

The Alliance for All Labour Party Professionals and Stakeholders (AALPS) has raised serious concerns over what it describes as the destabilisation of the party by its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

The group has warned that his actions are threatening the party’s future and could lead to catastrophic electoral consequences in the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued by Dr. Blessing Elaigwu, National Convener of AALPS, the group expressed dissatisfaction with Obi’s role in fostering division and litigation within the party.

It accused him of prioritising personal ambitions over the unity and progress of the Labour Party.

The Alliance criticised Obi for allegedly backing an attempt to replace the legitimate leadership of the party, led by Barrister Julius Abure, with his allies during a disputed stakeholders’ meeting in Umuahia last year.

Despite losing in the lower and appellate courts, Obi’s group reportedly plans to escalate the matter to the Supreme Court, a move the stakeholders see as unnecessary and damaging.

Elaigwu stated, “This persistent infighting has stagnated the Labour Party’s growth at a time when other political parties are already strategizing for 2027. Peter Obi’s actions are weakening the foundation of the party and disappointing millions of Nigerians who invested their trust in him.”

The group accused Obi of neglecting his responsibility to strengthen the party after the momentum gained during the 2023 elections.

It noted that while other parties are consolidating, the Labour Party has been embroiled in internal conflicts fueled by Obi’s alleged interference.

The statement read: “Instead of leveraging the goodwill generated in 2023, Peter Obi has allowed selfish interests to overshadow the need for unity and strategic growth. This is not the leadership Nigerians expected from someone who promised a new kind of politics.”

The AALPS called on Obi to abandon any further legal challenges and urged him to engage in dialogue with the Abure-led leadership within 48 hours to resolve the crisis.

The group said that the Labour Party is seen as a viable alternative to Nigeria’s two dominant political parties, and its future should not be jeopardized by internal discord.

He said, “If Obi is planning to leave the Labour Party, he should do so honourably without destroying the structure that so many Nigerians worked hard to build. The party’s success does not depend on any single individual.”

The group warned that Obi’s current trajectory could alienate the electorate and lead to his political downfall in 2027.

It reminded him of the sacrifices Nigerians made during his 2023 campaign, cautioning that his actions are eroding the trust and hope of millions who believed in the Labour Party’s vision.

The statement added, “The Labour Party has become a symbol of hope for Nigerians. Obi must recognize this and rise above personal interests to rebuild the trust he once commanded. If he fails to do so, the outcome of 2027 may permanently end his political journey.”