Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has responded after his trusted ally Kenneth Okonkwo criticized him while leaving the party.
Kenneth Okonkwo, an actor turned politician, announced his exit from the Labour Party on Sunday, July 28, citing internal strife and a leadership crisis threatening to tear the party apart. In his announcement, he also criticized Obi.
After Okonkwo, who served as the party’s Presidential Campaign Council spokesman, announced his resignation, the party’s leadership labeled him as a mole. However, Obi responded by stating that Okonkwo remains a trusted ally despite leaving the party.
He wrote on X: “Yesterday, I read my dear brother Kenneth Okonkwo’s open letter in which he expressed differing views with me on the skirmishes in our party. And today I saw various responses to the letter.
“I want to therefore categorically and emphatically declare that Barrister Okonkwo remains my beloved brother and a trusted ally. I sternly caution against referring to him as a mole or making any negative remarks. Barr. Kenneth Okonkwo has stood by me through thick and thin, and his loyalty and commitment cannot be overstated or diminished.
“Disagreements and differing opinions are a natural part of any group, society, or movement, and it is essential to maintain a level of respect and decorum even when we disagree.
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“Having differing views does not make someone an enemy, and it is crucial to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to personal attacks or negative remarks.
In fact, to me personally, I don’t want to work with anyone who always agrees with me, because as a leader, learning and listening are critical components of leadership. I want to listen to those who have different opinions and try to convince them otherwise or take their advice if it is better.
“I urge all believers of a New Nigeria to remain strong, resilient, and focused, and to refrain from discouragement or negative remarks towards Barrister Kenneth Okonkwo or anyone who leaves or disagrees with our views, strategies, or tactics.
“My message is clear and simple: unity, respect, and civility must prevail, even in the face of disagreement and variance.”