By Anifowoshe Oladipupo
Labour Party chieftain and former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reaffirmed his commitment to building a Nigeria where opposition politics is respected and protected, rather than suppressed.
Speaking during a recent XSpace session, Obi addressed mounting criticism over his role in the Labour Party’s internal crisis.
He dismissed the accusations, stating that they fail to acknowledge a deeper problem: the deliberate destabilization of opposition by those in power.
“You’re asking me about a party where the same people breaking it are the ones running the government.
“This is like demolishing a house and asking the neighbour why the roof fell off,” Obi said, accusing the ruling elite of undermining opposition for political gain.
Drawing from his time as governor of Anambra State, Obi recounted his experience managing complex political turmoil, including an impeachment, opposition-dominated legislature, and intense party divisions.
He emphasized that he remained calm, avoided political witch-hunts, and upheld democratic values even in adversity.
Recalling his refusal to sack a State Assembly Speaker despite pressure during his impeachment, Obi said, “I believed in stability and respected the institution of the opposition, knowing it’s essential for democracy.”
He refuted claims that the Labour Party crisis reflected an inability to lead, arguing instead that Nigeria’s political woes are rooted in the ruling class’s intolerance and manipulation of democratic systems.
He noted, with concern, that even the President appeared to celebrate the disarray in the opposition.
“I envision a Nigeria where the opposition enjoys peace. I’ll work with everyone to fix the house, even if it’s not mine,” Obi declared, referencing his record in Anambra, where his government functioned effectively despite rival parties controlling the State Assembly and Senate delegation.
He concluded with a call for unity, dialogue, and constructive politics, insisting that true leadership is about building, not destroying.
His remarks have since drawn praise across social media for their tone of maturity, inclusiveness, and the statesmanlike posture many say is lacking in the current political climate.
