Former spokesman of the Labour Party (LP), Presidential Council, Kenneth Okonkwo, announced his leaving the Party and its presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi owing to what he described as “lack of decisive leadership” which has left the LP in disarray.

Okonkwo, a former member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) before the defected to the LP in 2023, however, said that despite his departure from the Labour Party, he remains dedicated to the Nigerian people and their aspirations for a better future.

This was as Okonkwo stressed the importance of good governance and the right to protest, thus challenged the government to address the root causes of public discontent.

He explained that there was absolutely nothing personal with his decision to adjust his relationship with Mr Peter Obi, saying that it was 100 per cent based on principles and his conviction that he needs a more decisive, bold, brave leader with integrity and team spirit.

He castigated Peter Obi for his inability to galvanise the Labour Party to effectively challenge the current political establishment, adding that his resolve to leave the Labour Party came after series of disheartening experiences and perceived leadership failures within the party.

In an open letter to his countrymen, Okonkwo said that his political journey to a great Nigeria remains unwavering, stressing that he will also remain committed to building a great Nigeria based on equity, justice, and fairness.

Okonkwo particularly lamented the current state of political affairs thus, criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for failing to lead the country effectively.

He explained that his disillusionment with the Labour Party and the approach of Peter Obi to leadership and party management became unbearable for him.

Okonkwo said that his initial high hopes for the Labour Party following the 2023 general elections in addition to his believe that Peter Obi would spearhead the creation of a solid party of integrity to challenge the existing political order were dashed.

In the words of Okonkwo; “Obi’s public declaration that he never promised to build a strong Labour Party, his failure to organize an inclusive party convention, and his refusal to disassociate from the alleged corrupt activities of the National Working Committee became worrisome.

“I am shocked that PO could not openly support the noble efforts of the Labour Unions who founded the Labour Party as a base to fight for the welfare of workers,” he said.

Okonkwo said that he would continue with his intention to continue his political journey independently, focusing on uniting like-minded individuals and stakeholders who share his vision for a great Nigeria.