Obi: Kenneth Okonkwo remains my trusted ally — he’s not a mole

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, says Kenneth Okonkwo remains his trusted ally.

Okonkwo, a chieftain of the LP, had said he no longer has confidence in the ability of Obi to build a party that can win elections.

He said Obi has “proved that even if the people vote for him, he does not have what it takes to secure the mandate”.

The LP chieftain said the recent happenings in the party have “inspired” him to chart a new political course.

Speaking on the development, Obi cautioned LP against referring to Okonkwo as a mole who worked for the opposition party. 

He said “having differing views does not make someone an enemy”, adding that “it is crucial to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to personal attacks or negative remarks”.

“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,” he said.

“I want to therefore categorically and emphatically declare that Barrister Okonkwo remains my beloved brother and a trusted ally. I sternly caution against referring to him as a mole or making any negative remarks. 

“Barr. 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.

“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.”

LP had described Okonkwo’s attack on Obi as “unfortunate and attention-seeking”.

In a statement, the LP had said Okonkwo’s resignation from the party did not come as a surprise.