The Coalition for Peter Obi (CPO), comprising over 200 support groups, has thrown its weight behind Captain Isaac David Balami as the prospective national chairman of the Labour Party (LP).
Echoing this endorsement are the Afenifere National Youths Council (ANYC) and the Niger Delta Youth Council (NDYC), both urging the party leadership to rally behind Balami. According to ANYC and NDYC, Balami’s integrity and competence make him a fitting candidate for the leadership role within the Labour Party.
In separate statements signed by Eniola Joseph Ojajuni of ANYC and Chief Henderson Henry of NDYC, the endorsement of Balami comes amidst mounting calls for the resignation of the incumbent LP national chairman, Julius Abure. Allegations of corruption against Abure, including misappropriation of campaign funds totaling N3.5bn, have spurred discontent within the party ranks.
Abure’s purported mismanagement of party finances has led to internal strife, with national treasurer Oluchi Opara among those alleging financial impropriety. Despite these allegations, Abure’s supporters and certain party leaders have dismissed the claims as unfounded, resulting in internal discord within the Labour Party.
Expressing concerns over the party’s future under Abure’s leadership, members of the Obi-dients Movement within the LP fear that ongoing controversies may undermine the party’s electoral prospects. Against this backdrop, the CPO’s national coordinator, Barr. Joshua Ebighiebi, has urged prominent party figures such as Peter Obi and Alex Otti to throw their weight behind Balami’s bid for party chairmanship.
Emphasizing Balami’s credentials as a seasoned professional and former Deputy Campaign Manager for Obi/Datti during the last presidential election, the CPO underscores his potential to lead the party effectively. Balami’s track record in collaborating with various stakeholders and implementing strategic initiatives during the 2023 presidential campaign exemplifies his leadership acumen and commitment to grassroots engagement.
With the backing of major support groups like CPO, the Coalition for New Nigeria (CNN), and the Coalition for Better and Brighter Nigeria (CBBN), Balami’s candidacy represents a unifying force within the LP. As the party prepares for its upcoming national convention, advocates for change within the LP, including the Obi-dients, call on Peter Obi to champion transparency and inclusivity in party affairs.
In a bid to rejuvenate the Labour Party and restore its standing in Nigerian politics, supporters of Balami urge Peter Obi to endorse their efforts and ensure a fair and representative selection process during the party’s National Convention.
