Former spokesperson for the Labour Party’s presidential campaign council, Kenneth Okonkwo, has announced his resignation from the party, citing internal leadership issues and a lack of direction ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a statement released on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, Okonkwo stated that his resignation would take effect from February 25, 2025, marking the second anniversary of the 2023 presidential election.
He emphasized that his political journey has always been driven by the pursuit of good governance, and he remains committed to working towards a better Nigeria.
Okonkwo expressed appreciation to Nigerians who supported the Labour Party during the 2023 elections, acknowledging their efforts in building a movement that transcended ethnic and religious lines.
However, he argued that the party, as currently constituted, is non-functional, citing the expiration of party executives’ tenure at the ward, local government, and state levels due to the failure to conduct congresses.
He further criticized Julius Abure’s leadership, accusing him of prioritizing personal gains over the party’s survival. According to Okonkwo, the lack of effective leadership has left the Labour Party unable to engage in necessary political consultations, alignments, and strategies ahead of the 2027 elections.
Okonkwo further pointed out the infighting and legal battles within the party, which have hindered its ability to function effectively.
Okonkwo specifically noted that Abure’s refusal to relinquish the national chairman position to a northern candidate—in line with traditional party structures—suggests a lack of genuine interest in fielding a competitive presidential candidate from the South in 2027.
He warned that any southern candidate relying on the current Labour Party leadership is setting themselves up for failure.
Reaffirming his commitment to good governance and national progress, Okonkwo stated that after his resignation takes effect, he will be open to joining other like-minded Nigerians in shaping the country’s political future.
