Faduri Oluwadare Joseph, a former presidential aspirant of the Labour Party (LP), has issued a challenge to Peter Obi, the party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, urging him to step down from his position if he cannot foster unity among party members.
The party has been embroiled in internal strife, with two factional groups, led by Julius Abure and Apapa Lamidi respectively, vying for control of the national chairmanship. Additionally, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has laid claim to ownership of the LP.
Amidst this power struggle, Abure was controversially reelected during a national convention held in Anambra State.
In a statement released on Friday, Faduri implored Obi to ensure the party’s survival and strength as a viable opposition option in Nigeria.
Faduri stated, “Enough is enough! Let’s put aside our differences and collaborate towards the goal of fostering good governance in our nation. This is a country, as I often say, where we possess everything yet lack everything.”
He continued, “If Mr. Peter Obi cannot reconcile the party, he should step down. I call upon all patriotic Nigerians with sincere intentions to rescue our party, and by extension, our nation. The people of Nigeria are counting on us.”
“The Labour Party stands as the sole alternative party that Nigerians are pinning their hopes on. Therefore, we must transition this country from its old ways to a new era through a change in leadership.”
Faduri concluded, “If the current leadership within the Labour Party cannot find common ground, I implore them to exit the party, allowing us to rebuild with the assistance of the NLC and grassroots Nigerians. Together, we will be prepared to challenge any individual or government come 2027.”