Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has firmly distanced himself from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement released on Friday, Obi debunked social media speculation linking him to an APC event, emphasizing his commitment to principled politics free from toxicity, blackmail, or manipulation.
The former Anambra State governor cautioned against attempts to tie his name to such rumors, asserting, “For clarity, both now and moving forward, I am neither a member of the APC nor do I intend to join them. My political approach is grounded in integrity, fairness, and constructive engagement on issues that matter.”
Obi urged political parties to prioritize competence, capacity, and compassion when evaluating aspirants, qualities he deems vital for advancing Anambra and Nigeria as a whole. Addressing his former ally Valentine Ozigbo—now an APC gubernatorial aspirant in Anambra—Obi maintained that leadership assessments should focus on these traits rather than devolve into personal attacks or divisive tactics.
Ozigbo, who defected from the LP to the APC in February, had previously expressed hope that Obi would follow him to the ruling party. Responding to this, Obi said, “Valentine, like any other aspirant, should be judged by his leadership merits within his chosen party. Elections and primaries must rise above mudslinging and focus on credibility, vision, and the ability to effect meaningful change.”
Obi further stressed the importance of transparent and equitable democratic processes, advocating for primaries—whether through voting, interviews, or selection—to remain unbiased and credible. “Every legitimate party member deserves an equal opportunity to compete, free from prejudice or coercion,” he added.
