Expressing his views on the situation, former spokesperson of the Atiku-Okowa presidential campaign council, Daniel Bwala, mentioned that the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, seems to be haunted by a dilemma of his own making.
Reacting to Obi’s recent declaration about potentially ditching the LP before the 2027 general elections, Bwala pointed out the tensions evolving within the party amidst a leadership struggle between Lamidi Apapa and Julius Abure.
Furthermore, LP is grappling with an ownership dispute following claims made by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
Discussing Obi’s predicament, Bwala highlighted the uncertainties surrounding the Social Democratic Party, a potential alternative for Obi, as there is no guarantee of an automatic ticket for him.
Sharing his thoughts on X, Bwala communicated: “BREAKING NEWS: The 2023 presidential candidate of @NgLabour, Peter Obi, appears to be struggling with a situation he created. Observing the lack of an automatic ticket within the Labour Party, he has indicated his readiness to depart if his demands are not met.
“Contemplating the Social Democratic Party as his prospective platform, he is cautious due to the absence of automatic tickets. Peter Obi’s concerns stem from the possibility of facing challenges in delegate elections since grassroots politics is not his forte, placing him in a difficult position.
“A former president is reportedly facing challenges persuading national leaders to back the initiative as they lean towards giving @officialABAT sufficient opportunity to reform Nigeria.”
Bwala further added: “Peter Obi has reportedly been advised to initiate a campaign promptly and engage with the core communities in northern Nigeria as well as the Muslim populace nationwide to dispel assumptions of identity politics.
“Despite commencing these efforts, apprehensions persist that international media, assessing his chances based on analytical data from the previous election, may find it challenging to alter his established image.
“His loyal supporters, known as the ‘Obedient’ group, have conveyed their reservations against any merger that could jeopardize his presidential aspirations, leaving him in a tough spot.”