Daniel Bwala, a former spokesperson for the Atiku-Okowa presidential campaign council, commented on Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, suggesting that Obi is facing consequences from decisions he made in the past. Bwala’s remarks came after Obi hinted at the possibility of leaving the Labour Party before the 2027 general elections due to unresolved issues within the party.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, expressed his unwillingness to remain with the party if ongoing internal conflicts persisted. The Labour Party has been embroiled in leadership disputes between Lamidi Apapa and Julius Abure, as well as ownership controversies involving claims by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
In response, Bwala highlighted Obi’s dilemma, pointing out that the Social Democratic Party (SDP), which Obi intends to join, does not offer automatic tickets. Bwala suggested that Obi may face challenges winning delegate elections due to his perceived lack of grassroots political support, leaving him in a difficult situation.
Moreover, Bwala noted that influential figures, including a former president, are hesitant to endorse Obi’s move, preferring to support another candidate, possibly Atiku Abubakar, and give him time to reform Nigeria.
Bwala further mentioned that Obi is advised to launch a campaign targeting northern Nigeria and Muslim communities to dispel perceptions of identity politics. Despite Obi’s efforts, concerns exist that international media may find it challenging to rebrand him based on his electoral prospects.
Additionally, Obi’s core supporters, dubbed the “Obedient” people, have expressed their opposition to any merger that could jeopardize his presidential aspirations, leaving Obi in a difficult situation with limited options.