A fresh wave of political turmoil has hit the Labour Party (LP) as Abayomi Arabambi, the factional National Publicity Secretary of the party, announced plans to expel former presidential candidate Peter Obi over alleged anti-party activities.
Speaking on Channels Television’s “Morning Brief” program on Tuesday, Arabambi said the party will soon convene a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to formally expel Obi, accusing him of violating the party’s constitution by simultaneously associating with another political group.
“We’re convening a NEC meeting where Peter Obi will be expelled,” Arabambi stated. “He was already on suspension before he went ahead to carry out anti-party activities. You don’t join another political party and still claim to belong to ours. It’s unconstitutional to hold dual political party affiliations.”
The controversy follows Obi’s open support for a coalition initiative led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move Arabambi and other LP leaders view as a clear breach of loyalty to the Labour Party. Obi had recently attended a political event backed by the ADC, sparking concerns within LP over his intentions and allegiance.
Arabambi further accused Obi of instigating the internal crisis currently rocking the Labour Party, claiming the former Anambra State governor lacks the moral and political capacity to lead a national political movement. “He’s not fit to lead any party. He started the division within the LP,” he asserted.
Despite these allegations, Peter Obi has maintained that he remains a committed member of the Labour Party. In a recent interview, he clarified that his involvement with the ADC was not as a member, but as a supporter of a broader political movement aimed at advancing democratic values.
“I am not a member of ADC,” Obi said. “I only support what they stand for in terms of national development. I remain with the Labour Party.”
The former governor also reiterated his ambition to run for the presidency again in 2027, asserting his qualifications and readiness to lead Nigeria. His statement comes amid speculation that his recent moves might signal a realignment ahead of the next general election.
The Labour Party has been battling internal disputes since the 2023 elections, where Obi emerged as a surprise frontrunner, gaining widespread support among young voters and reform-minded citizens. However, lingering leadership tussles, especially between the Julius Abure-led national leadership and other factions like Arabambi’s, have continued to shake the party’s cohesion.
As the NEC meeting approaches, all eyes will be on the Labour Party to see whether it will follow through with Obi’s expulsion or attempt reconciliation with one of its most prominent figures.
