Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has responded to his close ally Kenneth Okonkwo’s attack on him while abandoning the party.
Kenneth Okonkwo, an actor turned politician, announced his departure from the Labour Party on Sunday, July 28, citing continuing internal struggle and a leadership crisis that threatened to split the party apart.
In his remarks, he also had some harsh words for Obi.
After Okonkwo, the party’s Presidential Campaign Council spokesman, announced his resignation, the party’s leadership labeled him as one of their moles.
However, in response to the incident, Obi stated that despite leaving the Labour Party, Okonkwo remained a trustworthy ally.
He wrote on X: “Yesterday, I received my dear brother Kenneth Okonkwo’s open letter, in which he expressed disagreement with me about the fights in our party. And today, I saw several responses to the letter.
“I want to absolutely and emphatically state that Barrister Okonkwo is still my cherished brother and loyal ally. I strongly advise against referring to him as a mole or making any disparaging remarks.
“Barr. Kenneth Okonkwo has supported me through thick and thin, and his loyalty and commitment cannot be emphasized or underestimated.
“Disagreements and opposing viewpoints are unavoidable in every group, community, or movement, and it is critical to retain a level of respect and decorum even when we disagree.
“Having opposing viewpoints does not make someone an enemy, and it is critical to participate in constructive discourse rather than personal assaults or nasty statements.
“In fact, I don’t want to work with somebody who always agrees with me, because learning and listening are important components of leadership. I want to listen to people who disagree and try to persuade them otherwise, or take their counsel if it is better.
“I urge all New Nigeria supporters to remain strong, resilient, and focused, and to avoid discouragement or negative remarks directed at Barrister Kenneth Okonkwo or anyone who departs or disagrees with our views, strategies, or tactics.”
“My message is plain and simple: unity, respect, and civility must prevail, even in the face of criticism and variance.”….Seē _ Morē