Kenneth Okonkwo’s departure from the Labour Party reveals significant leadership and direction issues within the party. Okonkwo criticizes Peter Obi and the LP for failing to address Nigeria’s political challenges and announces his intention to explore new political avenues.
Kenneth Okonkwo, the former spokesperson for the Labour Party’s (LP) Presidential Campaign, has announced his departure from the party, citing deep dissatisfaction with its leadership and direction. Okonkwo, who joined the LP in 2022, took to his X handle on Saturday to explain his reasons for leaving.
In his statement, Okonkwo criticized the LP for failing to provide the leadership necessary to tackle Nigeria’s pressing issues. He expressed disillusionment with both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), labeling them as ineffective in addressing the country’s problems.
Kenneth Okonkwo had initially joined the LP with hopes that its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, would transform the party into a robust force capable of challenging Nigeria’s entrenched political elites. However, Okonkwo voiced disappointment in Obi’s inability to resolve internal leadership crises and deliver on promises.
“I had hoped Peter Obi would use his momentum to build a party with integrity and a solid grassroots base,” Okonkwo said. “Unfortunately, this did not materialize, and the party’s leadership vacuum has left many of us disheartened.”
The former spokesperson also lamented Obi’s silence following calls for a national convention to elect new party leaders. Kenneth Okonkwo believes that this lack of action signifies a failure of leadership and a missed opportunity to address critical issues within the LP.
“Peter Obi’s inaction on crucial matters, including support for organized labour’s quest for a higher minimum wage, has eroded my confidence in his leadership,” Okonkwo stated. He emphasized that his decision to leave the LP is not personal but based on a principled stance for effective and courageous leadership.
As he steps away from the LP, Okonkwo has no immediate plans to join either the APC or PDP. Instead, he aims to explore new political avenues while remaining committed to the principles he values.
“I am now free to explore new opportunities and engage with like-minded individuals to shape my political future,” Okonkwo concluded.
The departure of Okonkwo from the LP highlights ongoing challenges within the party and the broader political landscape in Nigeria.