The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has clarified that members of the Labour Party (LP), including its 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, are free to associate with any political coalition or platform of their choice.
Speaking to journalists, Ajaero addressed the controversy surrounding Peter Obi’s recent engagement with the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He emphasized that Obi, like any other LP member, is entitled to attend meetings or collaborate with other political groups without it signifying an official party position.
“We have said it before and we are saying it again: the Labour Party is not in any coalition or merger with any party,” Ajaero stated.
“If Peter Obi visits the ADC, it does not mean the Labour Party has joined them. We must distinguish between the actions of an individual and the position of the party.”
Ajaero reaffirmed that the LP remains strong and fully prepared to contest and win the 2027 general elections independently.
“Obi himself said after the meeting that he remains a member of the Labour Party. Unless he officially resigns, it is incorrect to claim otherwise,” Ajaero noted.
Response to Abure-led Faction and Merger Speculations
Following Obi’s meeting with the ADC, the Julius Abure-led faction of the Labour Party issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding his resignation. Ajaero dismissed this directive, questioning the legitimacy of Abure’s leadership.
“Anyone claiming to be party chairman without the backing of the working people and the NLC is only daydreaming,” Ajaero argued.
“When the time comes, it will be clear who truly represents the party.”
Ajaero also highlighted the unique grassroots strength of the Labour Party, emphasizing its foundation by the NLC and alignment with Nigeria’s working class, traders, farmers, and artisans.
“This is the only party that offers hope to ordinary Nigerians,” he said.
“In the last election, we saw an Okada rider get elected to the National Assembly after receiving a free nomination form. Contrast this with other parties where nomination forms cost ₦100 million—an amount out of reach for common people.”
Ajaero urged Nigerians to embrace the Labour Party as a truly inclusive platform, similar to successful Labour movements in other countries, notably the UK.
“We have not abandoned the party. Instead, we want Nigerians to take ownership of it and keep it rooted in its mission to serve the people,” he concluded.
