The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has refused to condemn the former spokesman of the presidential campaign council, Kenneth Okonkwo, despite his exit from the party.
While reacting to Okonkwo’s decision to leave the party, Obi cautioned his supporters popularly called ‘Obidients’ against criticizing the actor over his personal opinions.
Okonkwo announced his resignation from LP recently and called out Obi for lacking the leadership capacity to resolve the party’s lingering crisis.
In a recent thread on his X account, Obi described Okonkwo as a trusted ally.
He stated that Okonkwo was entitled to his opinion and that does not make him an foe but rather a strong voice and ally.
Obi tweeted: “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.
“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.
“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.
“Having differing views does not make someone an enemy, and it is crucial to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to personal attacks or negative remarks.
“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.
“I urge all believers of a New Nigeria to remain strong, resilient, and focused, and to refrain from discouragement or negative remarks towards Barrister Kenneth Okonkwo or anyone who leaves or disagrees with our views, strategies, or tactics. My message is clear and simple: unity, respect, and civility must prevail, even in the face of disagreement and variance.”
