Kenneth Okonkwo Departs Labour Party, Criticizes Peter Obi’s Leadership

On July 27, 2024, Kenneth Okonkwo, a prominent Nollywood actor and former spokesman for the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council, announced his departure from the party, delivering a scathing critique of its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi. Okonkwo’s announcement, made via his social media accounts, highlights deep disillusionment with Obi’s leadership and the Labour Party’s internal struggles.

In his statement, Okonkwo expressed frustration over what he perceives as persistent internal crises within the Labour Party and Obi's failure to address them effectively. Okonkwo's decision to leave was driven by his belief that Obi had not demonstrated the capability to build a robust political platform necessary for challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming 2027 elections.

“What is happening in the Labour Party today has inspired in me a determination to chart a new course for my political journey,” Okonkwo wrote. He reflected on the high hopes many, including himself, had pinned on the Labour Party following the 2023 general election. Okonkwo had expected Obi to harness this momentum to establish a solid and principled party capable of overcoming existing political adversaries.

Okonkwo criticized Obi for publicly stating that he did not promise to build a strong Labour Party but to address Nigeria’s broader issues. This declaration, according to Okonkwo, was a significant setback, as it suggested Obi did not appreciate the importance of a solid party foundation in achieving political success.

Despite initial optimism, Okonkwo expressed disappointment that Obi did not take meaningful steps to resolve internal party issues. He noted Obi’s failure to support the Labour Party’s National Working Committee in organizing an inclusive convention for leadership selection. Furthermore, Okonkwo lamented that Obi had not distanced himself from the controversies surrounding the former NWC, leaving party members in confusion about the party's future direction.

Okonkwo also voiced concern over Obi’s lack of support for the Labour Unions, which had originally founded the Labour Party to advocate for workers' welfare. He criticized Obi for not publicly supporting these unions, which has led some to view him as part of the problem rather than the solution.

Concluding his statement, Okonkwo reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Labour Unions and other stakeholders fighting for the party’s integrity. However, he expressed a lack of confidence in Obi’s ability to build a winning party or secure a mandate if elected. Okonkwo’s departure marks a significant shift in his political journey as he seeks to align himself with a vision for Nigeria that he feels is not represented by Obi’s current leadership.

This departure and critique come as a considerable blow to the Labour Party, highlighting ongoing challenges and the fractured state of its leadership as it navigates the path to future elections.