The National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party (LP), Abayomi Arabambi, has described the departure of Kenneth Okonkwo from the party as a relief, stating that it strengthens the party’s plans to unseat the current administration in 2027.
Arabambi made these remarks on Wednesday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, asserting that the Labour Party remains strong despite Okonkwo’s claims.
Okonkwo’s Resignation Sparks Controversy
Okonkwo, a former spokesperson for the Obi-Datti Presidential Campaign, announced his resignation on Tuesday, citing the party’s alleged non-existence as a key reason for his departure.
Reacting to the resignation, Arabambi dismissed Okonkwo’s concerns, stating:
“We wish Mr Kenneth Okonkwo well. His resignation is good riddance to bad rubbish. He should stop talking about the Labour Party.”
He insisted that the Labour Party faces no leadership crisis and is far from becoming irrelevant, despite claims from political detractors.
Allegations of Betrayal and APC Links
Arabambi went further to accuse Okonkwo of collaborating with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and working against the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
“Kenneth Okonkwo has been working with President Tinubu for a long time. He worked against both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 elections. We wish him well, and we will meet in 2027.”
He added that the party is committed to eliminating political disloyalty, warning that indiscipline and betrayal would not be tolerated as the 2027 elections approach.
“In 2027, we will not entertain political rascality in our party. The National Chairman is on a reconciliatory mission, and that is why some people are panicking.”
Unpaid Party Vendors and Campaign Funds Probe
Arabambi was also questioned about unpaid vendors from the 2023 elections, a matter that has remained unresolved nearly two years later.
In response, he shifted responsibility to Aisha Yesufu and Pastor Itua Ighodalo, stating:
“Two people can answer that—Aisha Yesufu and Itua Ighodalo. They were in charge of the party’s funds, not the Labour Party itself. They should settle that.”
This follows Arabambi’s 2024 call for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate Aisha Yesufu, Itua Ighodalo, Peter Obi, and others over alleged embezzlement of over ₦12 billion and $15 million in donations meant for the Labour Party’s campaign.
As internal disputes continue, the Labour Party faces mounting pressure to resolve financial concerns and strengthen its leadership ahead of 2027.