In an interview with Symfoni TV, Okonkwo criticized Obi’s handling of the post-election leadership crisis that has plagued the Labour Party, alleging that the former Anambra State governor sided with the Julius Abure-led faction whom Okonkwo claims has questionable ties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“He failed to manage the party. He ignored repeated advice to distance himself from Abure and his faction,” Okonkwo said, expressing dismay over what he perceives as Obi’s disregard for party unity.
The former LP spokesperson didn’t stop there. He criticized Obi’s leadership style, describing him as “not a team player” and “a politician of convenience, not conviction.” According to Okonkwo, Obi’s pattern of endorsing non-LP candidates during key elections alienated loyal members who had invested in the party’s post-2023 momentum.
“When we started in 2023, it was a genuine movement,Nigerians wanted change,I wasn’t drafted,I joined because I believed in the mission, But rather than consolidate on the movement’s gains, Obi lost focus.” Okonkwo stated.
He also addressed suggestions that he had betrayed Obi or the party.
“Any politician who knows what he’s doing cannot be betrayed. If there’s anyone who was betrayed, it’s me. Peter Obi betrayed me,” he said bluntly.
Okonkwo, who officially resigned from the Labour Party in July 2024, had previously described the party as “a secret society led by a group of clowns” and declared he no longer believed in Obi’s ability to build a party capable of winning elections.
“Even if Nigerians vote for him again, he has proven that he lacks what it takes to secure and protect that mandate,” he added.
As the political landscape ahead of 2027 continues to shift, Okonkwo’s fiery remarks highlight deepening divisions within the former “Obidient” camp and raise serious questions about the future of the movement that once captivated millions.
