A faction of the Labour Party (LP) loyal to the party’s National Chairman, Julius Abure, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to former presidential candidate Peter Obi, demanding that he resign from the party over his growing association with a newly formed opposition coalition.
In a statement released on Thursday, the group’s spokesperson, Obiora Ifoh, condemned Obi’s involvement in what he described as a “bromance” with the David Mark-led political alliance. The coalition, unveiled in Abuja on Wednesday, announced the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its official platform for the 2027 general elections.
Ifoh alleged that the coalition was composed of “desperate and recycled politicians” who had, at various times, contributed to the mismanagement of Nigeria, and therefore lacked the credibility to usher in the “new Nigeria” that Obi frequently advocates.
“We are aware of several nocturnal meetings between Peter Obi and some of our members, lobbying them to join him in his new party,” Ifoh stated. “We’re also aware that a number of them have refused to defect with him.”
The faction reiterated that the Labour Party was not part of the coalition and emphasized that any of its members participating in the alliance must resign their LP membership within 48 hours.
“Labour Party is not available for people with a dual agenda or a deceptive persona,” the statement added. “The party will not avail itself to individuals who have one leg in one party and another leg elsewhere.”
The statement further described the opposition coalition members as “opportunistic politicians” intent on regaining power rather than delivering genuine reform.
Wednesday’s meeting of the opposition leaders in Abuja resulted in the selection of former Senate President David Mark as interim National Chairman and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola as interim National Secretary of the coalition. The event was attended by prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former governors Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), Emeka Ihedioha (Imo), and Gabriel Suswam (Benue).
Others present included Senator Dino Melaye, former Minister of Youth and Sports Solomon Dalung, publisher Dele Momodu, Senator Ireti Kingibe, and former Chief of Air Staff Sadique Abubakar.
While Obi has not formally responded to the ultimatum, his presence at the coalition meeting has intensified speculation about a possible defection and broader political realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.
The Labour Party, which surged to national prominence during the 2023 presidential election under Obi’s leadership, now faces internal tension as the party navigates its future and its stance on emerging opposition movements.