Faduri Oluwadare Joseph, a previous contender for the Labour Party’s (LP) presidency, has issued a plea to Peter Obi, the party’s 2023 presidential nominee.
He has called for Obi to step down if he is unable to reconcile the party members, warning that the party is on the brink of disintegration.
Joseph’s plea comes in the wake of escalating internal disputes and leadership turmoil within the party. Two factions, one led by Julius Abure and the other by Apapa Lamidi, are locked in a power struggle, each asserting their dominance.
In a public statement released on Friday, Faduri implored Obi to take firm measures to avert the party’s downfall and promote unity among its members.
Faduri emphasized the critical role of the LP as a Nigerian opposition party and appealed to all stakeholders to put their differences aside. He stated, “If Mr. Peter Obi is unable to unify the party, he should step aside. I urge all Nigerians with a sincere desire to save our party, and in turn, our nation. Nigerians are counting on us.”
He further expressed his belief that the Labour Party is the alternative that Nigerians are seeking. “We have a responsibility to transition this nation from the old guard to a new generation through a change in leadership,” he added.
Joseph voiced his optimism that if unity is given priority and internal conflicts are swiftly resolved, the LP could become stronger and more resilient by 2027.
He concluded by saying, “If the leaders in the Labour Party cannot find common ground to unite, I implore all of them to leave the party. Let us rebuild this party with the assistance of the NLC and Nigerians at the grassroots level. By 2027, we will be ready to challenge anyone, any government.”
