On Monday, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, provided a response to a report suggesting his involvement in discussions with Atiku Abubakar and Rabiu Kwankwaso regarding a potential merger. The purpose of this merger would be to collectively challenge the dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and strive for a transfer of power.
In his statement, Peter Obi reassured his supporters of his unwavering dedication to the Labour Party.
Addressing a massive gathering in Edo State as part of the lead-up to the local government elections in the region, Obi confidently conveyed to the numerous party supporters in attendance that certain widespread claims were merely unfounded hearsay.
“The trajectory of the Labour Party’s progress is upward and unwavering. Our momentum will not only persist but also intensify. A significant portion of the information circulating is nothing more than baseless rumors; it’s imperative to disregard such noise. Our dedication remains steadfast in constructing a superior and rejuvenated Nigeria. Our goal is to transition Nigeria from a consumer-oriented nation to a productive powerhouse,” Obi articulated amidst resounding applause from the enthusiastic assembly.
The report emerges less than six months after the conclusion of the February 25 presidential election, during which Obi secured the third position. The ultimate victor was President Bola Tinubu of the APC, with Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) securing the second-placed position.
The outcomes, as stated in the official statement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), position Kwankwaso of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) in the fourth position.
Both Atiku and Obi are contesting the outcomes announced by INEC in a legal setting, with the tribunal withholding judgment on the cases after the involved parties concluded their debates and submitted their concluding written statements.
On Monday, a report surfaced indicating that Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso were convening to explore the potential of forming a coalition with the aim of challenging the APC in the 2027 election. This initiative comes in response to the anticipation of a verdict favoring the ruling party.
The report stated that the trio of leaders had opted to adopt a wait-and-see approach regarding the outcome of the election petitions currently before the court. This legal verdict would then dictate their subsequent actions.
Nonetheless, the former governor of Anambra State directed his remarks towards the participants representing the Labour Party in the Edo local government elections. He urged them to uphold their commitments made during their election campaigns should they emerge victorious.
“To all those vying for office, it’s essential that you communicate your proposed actions transparently to the electorate. Furthermore, if you achieve success, it’s imperative that you follow through on your pledges. Gone are the days of making assurances that ultimately fall through. Our nation has transcended the era of insincere guarantees; we are resolute in expecting tangible results. Your commitments must align with your accomplishments,” he emphasized.