The Labour Party (LP) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, demanding that he resign from the party following his involvement in a newly formed opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The ultimatum was announced in separate statements by the party’s two rival factions—one led by Lamidi Apapa and the other by Julius Abure.
Their respective National Publicity Secretaries, Dr. Abayomi Arabambi (Apapa faction) and Obiora Ifoh (Abure faction), released statements on Thursday accusing Obi of betraying the party’s principles.
Obi had earlier confirmed his participation in the coalition via a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, where he announced the formal adoption of the ADC platform for the 2027 general elections. He revealed that former Senate President David Mark would serve as National Chairman, while ex-Governor Rauf Aregbesola would act as National Secretary.
“Our commitment is to work together toward the 2027 elections, to ensure Nigeria gets competent, capable, and compassionate leadership,” Obi wrote. “This decision was not made lightly; it was based on deep reflection on the state of the nation and the need to move forward. No single group can change Nigeria alone. To break the chains of poverty and insecurity, we must build bridges—even uneasy ones.”
However, the LP factions see Obi’s move as a betrayal and a clear sign of dual allegiance.
Dr. Arabambi described the coalition as a “gathering of political hawks and desperadoes” driven by personal ambition rather than national interest.
“It’s a scam—a political Yahoo Yahoo. Our former, self-serving presidential candidate, Peter Obi, attended the coalition’s launch while still claiming LP membership. He has 48 hours to resign officially,” Arabambi stated.
He further alleged that Obi had been holding secret meetings with some LP members to persuade them to defect, though several reportedly refused.
“The Labour Party is not for those with dual agendas or deceptive personas. We won’t tolerate individuals who switch loyalties between morning and evening,” he said. “Nearly 70% of Nigerians are youth, yearning for real change. That dream cannot be realized through a coalition of recycled, desperate politicians.”
Echoing this sentiment, Obiora Ifoh of the Abure-led faction criticized Obi for aligning with a coalition he says contradicts the LP’s core values.
“Peter Obi’s actions undermine party unity and credibility,” Ifoh said. “This coalition is a club of frustrated politicians trying to claw their way back to power, not a platform for genuine transformation.”
He also reaffirmed that the Labour Party is not part of the coalition and warned that any member involved must resign within 48 hours.
“The party is not available to be used by people who play both sides. We stand for integrity, transparency, and a clear ideological direction,” Ifoh added.
