Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi has knocked the party for labelling Kenneth Okonkwo, a former spokesman of his campaign council a “mole.”
Okonkwo, who announced his exit from the Labour Party on Saturday, also gave Obi some knocks.
In a statement titled: “Political journey to a great Nigeria,” which he shared on his social media platforms on Saturday, Okonkwo cited his disappointment with the party’s internal crisis and the failure of its former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to address it.
But in response to the statement, the party, through its National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, said “more moles will be exposed, fumigated out of the party.”
However, Obi, through his official twitter handle, explained that Okonkwo remained his beloved brother and a trusted ally who stood by him through thick and thin, adding that Okonkwo’s loyalty and commitment cannot be overstated or diminished.
Obi said: “Yesterday, I read my dear brother Kenneth Okonkwo’s open letter in which he expressed differing views with me on the skirmishes in our party. And today I saw various responses to the letter.
“I want to therefore categorically and emphatically declare that Barrister Okonkwo remains my beloved brother and a trusted ally. I sternly caution against referring to him as a mole or making any negative remarks. Barr. Kenneth Okonkwo has stood by me through thick and thin, and his loyalty and commitment cannot be overstated or diminished. Disagreements and differing opinions are a natural part of any group, society, or movement, and it is essential to maintain a level of respect and decorum even when we disagree.
“Having differing views does not make someone an enemy, and it is crucial to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to personal attacks or negative remarks.
“In fact, to me personally, I don’t want to work with anyone who always agrees with me, because as a leader, learning and listening are critical components of leadership. I want to listen to those who have different opinions and try to convince them otherwise or take their advice if it is better.
“I urge all believers of a New Nigeria to remain strong, resilient, and focused, and to refrain from discouragement or negative remarks towards Barrister Kenneth Okonkwo or anyone who leaves or disagrees with our views, strategies or tactics.
“My message is clear and simple: unity, respect, and civility must prevail, even in the face of disagreement and variance.”