Former Spokesman for the Labour Party's Presidential Campaign Council, Kenneth Okonkwo, has publicly challenged Peter Obi to specify how he betrayed the 2023 presidential candidate after departing from the Labour Party.
Speaking during a recent appearance on Channels Television's Sunday Politics programme, Okonkwo defended his loyalty during his tenure with Obi's campaign, emphasizing that he never consulted with any of Obi's political rivals throughout the election period.
"When I worked for him, I never consulted any politician. I am making a public statement. I never talked to any political party. I was 100% loyal," Okonkwo stated firmly.
The former campaign spokesman further explained his position: "When I left, I told the whole world... I said from now onward, I am not going to speak for this person again. They don't understand what betrayal means. Anybody who is writing or saying anything about me is a reflection of who that person is; not a reflection of who I am."
Background of the Fallout
In July 2024, Okonkwo, who had been one of Obi's most vocal supporters during the 2023 presidential campaign, parted ways with the former Anambra governor and left the Labour Party. The Nollywood actor-turned-politician cited his disappointment with internal party conflicts and Obi's failure to address these issues as reasons for his departure.
Okonkwo also denied allegations of receiving financial benefits or property from Obi during the campaign period, countering rumors that had circulated following his exit from the party.
Responding to Obi's apparent comparison to Jesus Christ and his disciples, where one betrayed him, Okonkwo remarked: "How can you betray somebody you are not working for?" He added that he would allow Obi to be entitled to his opinion, noting that "no one fights for God."
The legal practitioner pointed out that since Obi made an insinuation comparing himself to Jesus with his twelve disciples, one of whom turned against him, it implied that Obi was positioning himself as Jesus in the analogy.
This public exchange highlights the continuing tensions within opposition politics in Nigeria as parties reposition themselves ahead of future electoral contests.
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