- He emphasized that the party remains resilient despite recent defections, including some National Assembly members
- The governor also dismissed suggestions that the Labour Party would merge with emerging opposition coalitions
- While acknowledging the vacuum left by Obi, Otti reassured members that the Labour Party is committed to internal cohesion
Abia State Governor and Labour Party leader, Dr. Alex Otti, has expressed deep regret over the defection of the party’s former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing it as a significant loss amid ongoing leadership challenges.
Eko Hot Blog reports that speaking in Abuja during a meeting with the party’s Board of Trustees, Interim National Committee leaders, and representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress, Otti acknowledged Obi’s departure but wished him well in his future political pursuits.
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He emphasized that the party remains resilient despite recent defections, including some National Assembly members, and affirmed plans to rebuild unity.
“We have decided to establish a reconciliation committee to engage aggrieved members, including former National Chairman Julius Abure. This will only succeed if party rules are respected,” Otti stated.
The governor also dismissed suggestions that the Labour Party would merge with emerging opposition coalitions, insisting that the party already functions as a coalition of Nigerian workers and progressive citizens.
Otti commended INEC for implementing the Federal High Court judgment that replaced the Abure-led executives with the Nenadi Usman-led caretaker committee.
He outlined the party’s roadmap, which includes congresses from ward to national levels starting in March, along with membership revalidation and new registrations.
While acknowledging the vacuum left by Obi, Otti reassured members that the Labour Party is committed to internal cohesion, growth, and preparation for future political contests.
The resolutions and strategy were confirmed in a statement from Governor Otti’s Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku, following the NEC and Interim National Committee meeting in Abuja on Saturday.
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