In a recent turn of events, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, addressed criticisms from Kenneth Okonkwo, a spokesperson for the party.
Despite Okonkwo’s pointed critique of Obi’s leadership, Obi maintained that Okonkwo remains a valued ally.
Okonkwo, who joined the LP in 2022, expressed his discontent with Obi’s handling of party affairs, particularly the internal crisis plaguing the party.
In a letter posted on X, Okonkwo stated, “Every member of the Labour Party is confused today as to the future of the Labour Party because of lack of leadership from PO over the party, and unfortunately, when they look up to me to tell them about PO’s standpoint, I sincerely have nothing to tell them because I don’t know myself.”
He further elaborated, “I cannot continue to speak on behalf of a leader that I do not know his stand on issues of great importance. I simply don’t know how to manipulate facts.”
Highlighting his frustrations, Okonkwo added, “I am shocked that PO could not openly support the noble efforts of the Labour Unions who founded the Labour Party as a base to fight for the welfare of workers to the extent that some of them are openly saying that PO is now the problem of LP. The Labour Unions now have the unfortunate situation where they are fighting criminals who want to hijack their party when an ordinary statement from PO would have brought the solution. I cannot continue with this ambivalence forever.”
In response, Obi took to his X handle on Monday to address the issue. He emphasized that Okonkwo’s differing opinion does not make him an adversary.
“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,” Obi wrote.
He continued, “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.”
Obi underscored the importance of respecting differing opinions within any organization, stating, “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.”
He added, “In fact, 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.”
Obi concluded by calling for unity and respect within the party, urging all supporters to remain focused.
“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.”