The 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has cautioned his supporters against attacking veteran actor cum politician, Kenneth Okonkwo.
Obi, in a statement via his X account in the early hours of Monday, 29th July, said Okonkwo should not be labelled as a mole, adding that the lawyer has been with him through thick and thin and remains a beloved brother and ally.
The statement follows an earlier declaration by Okonkwo on Sunday in which he cut ties with Obi.
Naturenex reports that Okonkwo made this known in a statement via his Instagram page on Sunday, accusing Peter Obi of being too weak and indecisive to confront national issues.
The movie star noted that the series of events in the Labour Party inspired his determination to chart a new course in his political journey, especially as Peter Obi has refused to seize the moment to build a solid party of integrity.
In reaction, the Labour Party (LP) on Sunday, through its National Publicity Secretary, Obiorah Ifoh, said it is aware of the moles within its ranks who are sure to be exposed and fumigated.
But Obi, in his reaction, said he has no issues with Okonkwo, maintaining that it is normal to have disagreements but very important to maintain respect and decorum.
The former Anambra State Governor added that personally, he doesn’t want to work with anyone who agrees with him always because he is the leader.
The Labour Party leader therefore urged his followers to desist from attacking Okonkwo.
The full statement by Obi reads: “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. -PO”
