By Samuel Timothy
On Sunday, Nollywood star-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo took to social media platform X to express his dissatisfaction with Peter Obi’s handling of the Labour Party’s internal crisis. Okonkwo lamented what he perceives as Obi’s failure to provide leadership, which has left party members in confusion.
“Every member of the Labour Party is confused today as to the future of the Labour Party because of lack of leadership from PO [Peter Obi] over the party,” Okonkwo stated. “Unfortunately, when they look up to me to tell them about PO’s standpoint, I sincerely have nothing to tell them because I don’t know myself.”
Okonkwo voiced his frustration at being unable to represent Obi’s views on important issues, saying, “I cannot continue to speak on behalf of a leader that I do not know his stand on issues of great importance. I simply don’t know how to manipulate facts.”
He also criticized Obi’s lack of support for Labour Unions, which he believes has exacerbated the party’s problems. “I am shocked that PO could not openly support the noble efforts of the Labour Unions who founded the Labour Party as a base to fight for the welfare of workers to the extent that some of them are openly saying that PO is now the problem of LP.”
Okonkwo suggested that a simple statement from Obi could resolve the party’s issues, but without it, the Labour Unions are left to fight against those trying to hijack the party. “I cannot continue with this ambivalence forever,” he concluded.
In response, Peter Obi addressed the situation, emphasizing his continued respect and trust in Okonkwo. “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.”
Obi firmly rejected any negative characterization of Okonkwo, stating, “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.”
Obi stressed the importance of constructive dialogue and respect, even in the face of disagreements. “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.”
He highlighted the value of differing opinions in leadership, saying, “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.”
Obi called for unity and resilience among his supporters, urging them to refrain from negative remarks towards Okonkwo or anyone who disagrees with their views. “My message is clear and simple: unity, respect, and civility must prevail, even in the face of disagreement and variance,” Obi shared.
