Datti Baba-Ahmed, the 2023 vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party, today affirmed that Peter Obi remains a dedicated member of the party. This clarification dismisses persistent rumors of Obi's potential departure amid internal leadership challenges.
Baba-Ahmed made the statement following the party's National Executive Council meeting in Abuja, which INEC officials attended to observe proceedings.
The NEC meeting, chaired by National Chairman Julius Abure, addressed the ongoing leadership tussle stemming from the controversial 2024 national convention in Nnewi. This dispute has divided the party into rival factions, including those supported by Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti.
Baba-Ahmed highlighted the INEC's presence as a significant validation, stating it boosts reconciliation efforts and reinforces the party's commitment to legal standards.
"To the best of our knowledge, our brother, His Excellency Peter Obi, is still a member of the Labour Party. Nothing has changed. If he were here now, I would have shifted my seat to the left for him," Baba-Ahmed said, emphasizing Obi's continued loyalty.
He added that the Labour Party has grown stronger despite challenges: "The Labour Party has not reduced in any way. We have only increased in numbers... This is a renewed drive for reconciliation, and I am here as a loyal party member to continue to open our arms to embrace new and existing members.”
Baba-Ahmed also addressed national insecurity, linking recent events like school abductions and attacks on military personnel to the failure to elect LP leadership in 2023. He reiterated the party's focus on workers' welfare, including advocating for decent living wages ahead of 2027.
The Labour Party remains committed to unity, reconciliation, and addressing Nigeria's pressing issues through collaborative and lawful means.