Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has explained that his decision to leave the party was driven by the need to begin early preparations for the 2027 general election and avoid the internal challenges that have continued to weaken opposition platforms.
Speaking on Tuesday at the unveiling of the coalition-backed African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform at Nike Lake Resort, Enugu, Obi said unresolved pre-election issues and procedural lapses were major lessons from the 2023 polls.
“We do not want to return to court again only to be told it is a pre-election matter,” Obi said, stressing that the groundwork for the next election cycle must start immediately.
He added that there was a limited window for aspirants and political actors to put their affairs in order ahead of 2027, particularly on issues relating to credentials and party processes.
“We still have a one-year window for everyone to go and verify the schools they attended. The pre-election process should start now,” he said.
Although Obi did not directly mention the Labour Party in his remarks, his comments pointed to frustrations with internal disorganisation and disputes that have trailed the party since the 2023 presidential election.
The former Anambra governor said his decision to align with the ADC-led coalition was informed by a broader vision to “rescue Nigeria” and build a platform capable of defending votes and resisting electoral malpractice.
“We are ending this year with the hope that in 2026 we will begin a rescue journey,” Obi said.
“We will resist rigging of election by every lawful means in 2027,” he added.
Labour Party has, in recent months, been embroiled in leadership tussles and legal battles, developments that political observers say have undermined its ability to function as a cohesive opposition force.
Obi joined LP in May 2022 after resigning from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing developments that did not support constructive engagement. He went on to contest the 2023 presidential election on the party’s platform, finishing third.
