Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has defended his political journey across multiple parties, insisting his decisions are guided by principles rather than personal ambition. In an interview on Arise TV, Obi traced his movement from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and eventually to the Labour Party, attributing his shifts to a refusal to tolerate internal crises and what he described as “transactional politics.”
“We must dismantle this criminality that exists today,” Obi said, emphasising that his political engagements are aimed at reforming governance and strengthening democratic values. He explained that his departure from APGA was motivated by a desire to prevent internal disputes from destabilising governance in Anambra State.
“I moved from APGA to the PDP because of issues with my successor. Rather than allow it to become destructive to governance, I moved out,” he stated. Obi further criticised practices within the PDP, describing them as inconsistent with his principles. “People were not playing by the rules. It was transactional. I cannot be part of a transactional system,” he said.
Addressing developments within the Labour Party, Obi noted that internal conflicts and legal disputes have contributed to instability within the platform. Despite aligning with figures across political divides, including those now associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Obi maintained that the focus should be on present commitments rather than past affiliations.
“What is important is not what people were yesterday, but what they are today,” he said. He acknowledged public scepticism but insisted that ongoing political realignments are part of a broader effort to rebuild a credible opposition capable of delivering accountable leadership. “We are ready to work with people who are committed to change. If the process is compromised again, we will continue the fight,” Obi added.
The remarks come amid heightened political activity and shifting alliances ahead of future elections, with opposition figures seeking to consolidate forces and present a unified front against entrenched political structures.
