The Labour Party has stated that the departure of Peter Obi, its 2023 presidential candidate, to another party is a positive development. The party said it feels “finally liberated” by his move.

Obi formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at an event in Enugu on Wednesday. In a strong response, the Labour Party leadership said it had been waiting for this since parting ways with him months ago.

The party blamed Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti for creating a major internal crisis. It accused them of leading an “insurrection” against the national leadership led by Julius Abure.

Reacting to the defection ceremony, the Labour Party claimed it was poorly attended. It said the event lacked support from major political and traditional figures in the South-East region.

Furthermore, the party argued that Obi’s political influence has seriously declined since the last election. It warned that his new ambition is “already a doomed project.”

In a notable apology, the Labour Party asked Nigerians for forgiveness. It admitted that fielding Obi was a “greatest political mistake” and an “unfitting” choice for the 2023 election.

With Obi’s exit, the party believes its internal conflicts are over. Leaders describe his defection as a blessing that allows the party to move forward