Obi and Abure
By Abayomi Grace
Julius Abure, the Labour Party national chairman, has criticized Peter Obi, the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, labeling him an “Uber politician”. This remark comes after Obi urged his supporters to vote for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidates in the upcoming August 16 by-elections, despite the Labour Party having no recognized candidates by INEC due to internal crisis.
Abure accused Obi of using crafty political tactics and often raising alarms about problems that don’t exist. He described Obi’s actions as a paradox in the Nigerian political space, saying, “He has turned himself into an ‘Uber’ politician, unwilling to take a firm position or stand by his decisions”. Abure also questioned Obi’s affiliations with multiple political parties, suggesting this reflects Obi’s desperation to assume leadership in Nigeria.
The controversy stems from Obi’s recent directive to his supporters, asking them to back ADC candidates in the by-elections. This move has sparked reactions, with some viewing it as a strategic step for the upcoming elections. Notably, Obi had previously endorsed Abure’s leadership and urged aggrieved party members to prioritize the party’s survival .
Abure’s criticism of Obi highlights the ongoing tensions within the Labour Party. Abure slammed Obi, saying he has elevated subterfuge in politics and has often cried wolf where none existed. According to Abure, Obi’s actions could earn him a place in the Guinness Book of Records for being affiliated with numerous political parties simultaneously, all in his bid to assume leadership of Nigeria.
The remarks by Abure underscore the challenges facing the Labour Party, particularly in the lead-up to the by-elections. The party’s internal crisis has led to the exclusion of its candidates by INEC, further complicating its electoral prospects. Obi’s decision to support the ADC has added to the party’s woes, with Abure’s reaction highlighting the deep-seated divisions within the party.
