The presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi has addressed criticism from the party’s spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo.
Despite Okonkwo’s critical comments about Obi’s leadership, the insists that Okonkwo remains a valued ally.
On Sunday, Okonkwo criticized Obi for not effectively handling the internal issues within the Labour Party.
He joined the party in 2022 and feels that Obi hasn’t done enough to build the party or address its leadership crisis.
Okonkwo expressed his frustration in a letter on social media, stating that the lack of leadership from Obi has left party members confused about the party’s future.
He emphasized his inability to explain Obi’s stance on important issues because he himself doesn’t know it.
Kenneth Okonkwo also criticized Obi for not supporting the Labour Unions who founded the party, accusing Obi of being the problem within the Labour Party.
He noted that a simple statement from Obi could have resolved many issues, but his silence has led to ongoing conflicts.
Reacting on his X page on Monday, Peter Obi emphasized that Okonkwo’s differing views do not make him an enemy.
The former governor emphasized that disagreements and different opinions are natural and should not lead to personal attacks.
He called for unity and focus within the party, encouraging members to stay strong and not be discouraged by differing viewpoints.
Obi wrote, “Yesterday, I read my dear brother Kenneth Okonkwo’s open letter in which he expressed differing views with me on the skirmishes in our party. And today, I saw various responses to the letter.
“I want to, therefore, categorically and emphatically declare that Okonkwo remains my beloved brother and a trusted ally. I sternly caution against referring to him as a mole or making any negative remarks. Kenneth Okonkwo has stood by me through thick and thin, and his loyalty and commitment cannot be overstated or diminished.
“Disagreements and differing opinions are a natural part of any group, society, or movement, and it is essential to maintain a level of respect and decorum even when we disagree. Having differing views does not make someone an enemy, and it is crucial to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to personal attacks or negative remarks.
“In fact, to me personally, I don’t want to work with anyone who always agrees with me, because as a leader, learning and listening are critical components of leadership. I want to listen to those who have different opinions and try to convince them otherwise or take their advice if it is better.
“I urge all believers of a New Nigeria to remain strong, resilient, and focused, and to refrain from discouragement or negative remarks towards Barrister Kenneth Okonkwo or anyone who leaves or disagrees with our views, strategies, or tactics. My message is clear and simple: unity, respect, and civility must prevail, even in the face of disagreement and variance.”
KanyiDaily recalls that Peter Obi recently filed N5 billion lawsuit against Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy.