Peter Obi joins the Nigerian Labour Party and is set to vie for its presidential ticket next week

FORMER Anambra State governor Peter Obi has joined the Nigerian Labour Party just days after he quit the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and is now expected to clinch its presidential ticket over the coming weeks.

Governor Obi, who was the PDP's vice presidential candidate in 2019 had been a c0ntender for the presidential ticket for 2023 but dramatically quit the race this week. He officially registered as a member of the Labour Party in his ward in Anambra State today and is expected to contest the party’s presidential primary election next Tuesday.

According to Governor Obi, his resignation was because of the recent developments in the main opposition party the PDP. In a letter dated May 24 and addressed to the national chairman of the PDP, Iyorchia Ayu, Governor Obi said he had already informed the chairman of the PDP chapter in his Agulu Ward 2, in Anambra State.

He said: “It has been a great honour to contribute to nation-building efforts through our party. Unfortunately, recent developments within our party make it practically impossible to continue participating and making such constructive contributions."

According to Governor Obi, the Labour Party is the right platform that aligns with his aspirations. He added that he had chosen a route that he considered to be in line with his  aspirations and mantra of taking the country from consumption to production.

Governor Obi said:  “I thank all Nigerians, especially our youths who have joined me in the mission of taking back and reuniting Nigeria. This project is yours and for the future of your children. I am just a facilitator.

“Since I resigned from the PDP because of issues that are at variance with my persona and principles, I have consulted widely with various parties and personalities to ensure we do not complicate the route to our desired destination. For me, the process of achieving our goal is as fundamental as what one will do thereafter.

“Therefore, I have chosen a route that I consider to be in line with our aspirations and my mantra of taking the country from consumption to production and that is the Labour Party, which is synonymous with the people, workers, development, production, securing and uniting Nigerians as one family. I invite all Nigerians to join me in taking back our country and be assured that I’ll never let you down.”

He added that Nigeria's national challenges are deep-seated and require that everybody make profound sacrifices towards rescuing the country. Governor Obi added that his commitment to rescuing Nigeria remains firm, even if the route differs.