Former presidential adviser to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Obol Okoi Obono-Obla, has called for the merger of the leading opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), with the Labour Party (LP) and other political entities to establish a formidable opposition force in Nigeria.
In a recent statement, Obono-Obla, a stalwart of the ruling party, expressed support for a similar proposition made by Atiku Abubakar, the former presidential candidate of the PDP in the last general election. The call for consolidation has garnered traction within political circles, with Obono-Obla stressing the necessity for a unified front to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“I fervently welcome the call by the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, for the merger of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), and other diverse political entities into a single formidable political party to oppose the All Progressives Congress (APC). That is a step in the right direction,” remarked Obono-Obla.
Elaborating on his stance, Obono-Obla emphasized the urgency of amalgamating these opposition forces, asserting that a fragmented and disorganized approach would be ineffective against the entrenched power of the APC. He voiced concerns about the APC’s evolution, expressing the view that the party has strayed from its original values and vision.
“The APC has grown into a behemoth, and I do not foresee it being defeated by a fractured and poorly organized PDP, LP, SDP, and NNPP in the next election. The leadership of the APC has veered off course, morphing into a melting pot of diverse political interests, ideologies, and unconventional affiliations, thereby muddling its progressive credentials,” stated Obono-Obla.
Additionally, Obono-Obla criticized the APC’s internal dynamics, citing discontent within the party’s ranks over what is perceived as neglect of dedicated members. He lambasted the elevation of political opportunism within the party, alleging preferential treatment for newcomers over long-standing, committed members.
“The present rumblings within the APC underscore the dissatisfaction with the leadership’s indifferent attitude toward its loyal and devoted members. The party has effectively institutionalized political opportunism and favored certain individuals who recently joined over those who have demonstrated unwavering dedication since 2010,” he contended.
Furthermore, Obono-Obla underscored his belief that the amalgamation of these opposition parties has the potential to catalyze a reformation within the APC and contribute to the cultivation of a robust democratic culture in Nigeria. He emphasized the need for a rejuvenated and unified opposition capable of holding the ruling party accountable and fostering a more vibrant political landscape.
