The Julius Abure-led National Working Committee of the Labour Party has reacted to reports that its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is set to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
According to sources who spoke with Punch, preparations have already begun among Obi’s supporters and loyalists ahead of a possible defection. The source also revealed that Obi recently met with ADC National Chairman, David Mark, where he reportedly reaffirmed his commitment to the coalition after being urged weeks earlier to make a firm decision about joining the party.
The insider claims Obi may officially announce his defection on December 31 at a declaration rally scheduled to take place in Enugu, described as the political hub of the South-East.
Meanwhile, Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, stated that the party is choosing to remain cautious in its response until Obi himself confirms the move. Ifoh emphasized that any decision to leave the LP would be rooted in personal ambition rather than a failure of the party structure.
“We cannot fully comment on that until we hear from Obi. Anybody can defect from anywhere to anywhere — it is normal in Nigerian politics. Labour Party doesn’t see it as a big deal,” Ifoh said.
He further expressed that while the LP holds no resentment, it would have been ideal for Obi to remain in the party and resolve any internal issues rather than switching platforms.
“The wisest thing for him is to stay back and work with the party that gave him the spread he got in 2023. He should reconcile with the party leadership and move on. But if he prefers to jump from one party to another, we wish him all the best,” he added.