April 16, 2026 | News
A major political shift has emerged within Nigeria’s Labour Party as a top party official has declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term ambition, while firmly ruling out any return of former presidential candidate Peter Obi.
The National Vice Chairman (South-West) of the Labour Party, Oluwafemi Abayomi Arabambi, made the revelation during an interview on Thursday, describing Obi’s possible comeback as “impossible.”
According to Arabambi, the party’s leadership has reached a consensus to align with President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing ongoing internal crises within the party as a key factor behind the decision. He said the leadership had agreed to support Tinubu’s second-term bid while maintaining backing for all Labour Party elected officials across different levels of government.
Arabambi dismissed efforts by the factional interim National Chairman, Nenadi Usman, to bring Obi back into the party, alleging that such moves are driven by personal interests. He also claimed that Obi’s role in the party contributed to its internal challenges, insisting that the party would not revisit past decisions.
The party chieftain further revealed that key figures within the party, including National Chairman Julius Abure and Abia State Governor Alex Otti, are in agreement on supporting Tinubu’s re-election. He described the move as part of a regional political understanding, arguing that the presidency should remain in the South-West for a full eight-year cycle.
Arabambi also criticized Obi’s previous political approach, alleging that strategic and logistical failures during past elections cost the party significant support. He questioned Obi’s chances of securing a presidential ticket on another platform, suggesting it would be difficult.
Reaffirming the party’s stance, Arabambi said the Labour Party is focused on consolidating its structure while working towards Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, emphasizing that the party would continue to support its current officeholders while avoiding past mistakes.
