Former Director General of Peter Obi-Datti Presidential Campaign Organisation, Doyin Okupe, has officially announced his resignation from the Labour Party, citing ideological disparities following the 2023 elections as the primary reason for his departure.

Okupe’s resignation letter, made public on Monday, highlighted his ideological rift with the party as a significant factor in his decision to leave. This move comes after his conviction in December 2023 by the Federal High Court in Abuja for money laundering amounting to N700m, based on charges brought forth by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

The conviction stemmed from allegations of illicitly receiving funds from former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, intended for arms procurement. Although Okupe received a two-year jail sentence, he opted to pay a fine of N13m to avoid imprisonment.

Notably, Okupe withdrew from Peter Obi’s campaign shortly after his money laundering conviction, affirming his continued support for the Labour Party’s presidential candidate. In his resignation letter, he expressed gratitude to the party for providing a platform for their 2023 Presidential Election bid and acknowledged the lack of burdensome conditions.

However, Okupe emphasized his inability to align with the Labour Party’s ideological stance, describing himself as a lifelong rightist and Liberal Democrat. He asserted the need to pursue his political activities with liberalism, sincerity, and freedom, prompting his decision to seek an exit from the party.

Despite his resignation, Okupe extended appreciation to the party leadership for their respectful and cordial treatment during his tenure as the Director General of the Obi-Datti Presidential Campaign Organisation.

Okupe’s departure from the Labour Party underscores the ongoing flux within Nigeria’s political landscape, reflecting the interplay of individual convictions and broader ideological dynamics.