Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in last year’s general elections, visited the party’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
Obi was welcomed by the party’s national chairman, Julius Abure, along with other party leaders.
This visit marks a significant shift for the former Anambra State governor, who had previously avoided the party’s controversial national convention held in his home state due to internal leadership disputes.
During his visit, Obi endorsed the newly elected National Working Committee (NWC) led by Abure. He called on party members to prioritize the welfare of Nigerians over individual interests, emphasizing the importance of unity within the party amidst the ongoing crisis.
Obi highlighted the pressing challenges facing Nigeria, including issues related to human capital development such as food security, education, health, and water. He urged politicians to focus on addressing these immediate concerns rather than fixating on future elections.
“For now, let us talk about how we are going to survive till then because we politicians always focus on the next election and not about human beings. For me, when they survive to the next election, we can talk about the election,” Obi stated. “Let us focus on Nigeria, and see that Nigeria works. If Nigeria is working, Labour Party will work.”
National Chairman Abure expressed gratitude for Obi’s visit and stressed the need for unity within the party. He urged all factions to set aside their differences stemming from the Nnewi convention and work together towards a common goal of building a strong party capable of making a significant impact in the next election.
“The convention has come and gone. All those who are still angry with us over the Nnewi convention, we appeal to them to come together to work with us to build the party for a new Nigeria with a vision,” Abure said. “Personal interest should be put aside to pursue a new Nigeria that will work for all.”
Peter Dugwu, Chairman of the LP in the Federal Capital Territory, organized the visit and expressed solidarity with the NWC. He pledged that the FCT chapter would strive to make a strong showing in the upcoming area councils elections.
