Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has explained that his movement between political parties has always been influenced by internal crises and legal disputes within those organisations rather than personal political interests.
Speaking during a visit to the permanent site of the University on the Niger, where he donated ₦25 million to support educational development, Obi stated that his political decisions have consistently been guided by principles and concerns about instability within party structures.
Addressing recent discussions surrounding his political alignment, Obi clarified that he has never left any political party without serious reasons. According to him, unresolved internal disagreements and legal battles often weaken political organisations and affect their ability to function effectively.
He noted that the stability and internal cohesion of a political party are important factors in determining continued participation, stressing that political institutions must operate with order and accountability to remain credible.
The former governor of Anambra State also stated that if given the opportunity to serve as President, he would prioritise building a strong and functional opposition system capable of supporting democratic governance in Nigeria.
According to Obi, an effective opposition is essential for democracy because it promotes accountability, encourages transparency, and ensures that government activities are properly scrutinised. He added that the growth of Nigeria’s democracy depends not only on those in power but also on the ability of opposition parties to organise themselves responsibly and effectively.
Obi further criticised the internal structure of many political parties in the country, arguing that they are often driven more by the struggle for power than by ideology or democratic principles. He explained that this situation contributes to leadership disputes, internal conflicts, and a lack of unity among party members.
He called for stronger internal democracy within political parties, where members can freely express their opinions and participate meaningfully in decision-making processes. According to him, tolerance and respect for differing views are necessary for building stable political institutions.
Speaking on education and youth development, Obi reiterated his commitment to investing in initiatives that improve learning opportunities for young people. He explained that he prefers using his personal resources to support education because of its long-term impact on society and national development.
He said, “People expect me to save money to pay polling unit agents, but I will not do that. Nigerians should learn to protect their votes themselves. I am spending my money on education because I believe in the future of young people.”
Obi also encouraged citizens to play active roles in protecting the integrity of elections, noting that democratic participation requires civic responsibility and public engagement. According to him, active voter involvement can help reduce electoral malpractice and improve confidence in election outcomes.
The visit formed part of Obi’s ongoing educational support initiatives across the country, as he continues to advocate increased investment in education, healthcare, and poverty reduction as key pillars for national development……See More
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