The Labour Party may soon expel its 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, over alleged anti-party activities.
This was disclosed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Abayomi Arabambi, during a press conference held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Friday.
Arabambi linked the proposed expulsion to Obi’s involvement in a new political coalition led by the African Democratic Congress, which includes prominent figures such as David Mark, named interim national chairman, and Rauf Aregbesola, who was introduced as national secretary.
The coalition is reportedly aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu’s administration in the 2027 general elections.
“Obi was there when they swore in David Mark, he was there when they swore in Rauf Aregbesola, so, he doesn’t have any excuse. We are not in support of this and he was properly introduced as leader of Labour Party that came to support the coalition. So as far as we are concerned we wish him well, he’s no longer part of Labour Party,” Arabambi stated.
He went further, levelling sharp criticism at Obi’s political ideology and motives. “The problem we have with him is that he is not a suitable politician, he’s a man looking for an avenue to divide Nigeria, to legalize corruption, crime and stealing. He’s looking for a party to achieve that and Labour Party is not on ground for such.”
Arabambi revealed that plans to remove Obi from the party were already in motion. “Plans are ongoing ground to expel him already, in our next NEC meeting Peter Obi will be expelled alongside Ireti Kingibe, who was unable to pay the salaries of her staff.”
During the briefing, Arabambi also introduced Faduri Oluwadare Joseph as one of the Labour Party’s presidential aspirants for the 2027 election. He emphasized Faduri’s commitment to principled governance and distinguished him from Obi.
“Faduri understands that Nigeria’s problems could not be solved with soundbites. He recognised that poverty alleviation required more than distributing rice; it demanded systemic reforms in education, healthcare, and job creation. Unlike Obi, who often spoke in absolutes, Faduri’s approach was nuanced, practical, and devoid of populist gimmicks.”
In a separate media appearance, Arabambi revealed that the Labour Party is also considering the possibility of fielding a female presidential candidate in 2027. When asked about the motivation behind the shift, he said, “Politics is dynamic and open, we can welcome anyone.”
