By Prof Eddie Oparaoji, Chairman Labour Party Directorate of International and Diaspora Affairs
In the tumultuous landscape of Nigerian politics, where the winds of change often seem distant, we have witnessed a remarkable evolution within the Labour Party—a party that has transformed from a modest presence into a formidable political force. This transformation, spearheaded by our indomitable leaders, National Chairman Barr Julius Abure and Presidential Candidate His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi, has resonated with the hopes and aspirations of millions. However, the ongoing leadership crisis threatens to unravel our hard-fought gains and jeopardize the future we envision for a better Nigeria.
The embrace of Peter Obi from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2022 as the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, marked a turning point, igniting a political revolution that captured the hearts of many. Despite the egregious electoral injustices perpetrated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the momentum we built together cannot be ignored. Our leaders, despite their imperfections, galvanized a movement that posed a serious challenge to the entrenched corrupt political establishment.
Yet, today, we find ourselves at a crossroads. The forces of disunity, fueled by external pressures and internal strife, threaten to dismantle the very fabric of our party. The ongoing conflict between Barr Abure’s led team, and the Caretaker/Obidients led by Mr. Peter Obi serves only to weaken our collective resolve and distract us from our ultimate goal—a Peter Obi led Labour Party Presidency, free from the shackles of corruption and misgovernance.
The recent Supreme Court ruling underscored the necessity for intraparty resolution, emphasizing that unity is not just desirable; it is imperative. Both Barr Abure and Mr. Obi must rise above their differences and come together behind closed doors to forge a path toward reconciliation. Failure to do so risks mutual destruction that would be celebrated by our opponents, leaving our dreams of a better Nigeria dashed once again.
Let us remember that we stand on a foundation built by the sacrifices and aspirations of countless Nigerians who believe in our vision for change. It is time to harness that spirit of unity to overcome the obstacles we face. Mr. Abure, as at now according the INEC portal. remains recognized as the Labour Party’s chairman. He and Mr. Obi, our leader; both must work collaboratively to initiate the unification process that our supporters and the nation desperately need.
Now is the time for dialogue, understanding, and a renewed commitment to the principles that bind us. Together, we can reshape the narrative of our party and reinforce our position as a beacon of hope in Nigeria’s political landscape.
We call upon both leaders to set aside their differences and embark on this essential journey of reconciliation. The future of the Labour Party—and indeed, the future of Nigeria—depends on it. Forward Ever!
