Senator Victor Umeh has revealed details of his efforts to discourage former Labour Party chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo from persistently criticizing former presidential candidate Peter Obi.
Speaking during an interview on Symfoni TV, Umeh said he personally appealed to Okonkwo to reduce his attacks on Obi, whom he described as a principled and disciplined politician committed to accountable leadership.
According to the senator, he has known Obi for more than two decades and believes the former Anambra State governor has consistently demonstrated integrity in public office and political conduct.
Umeh defended Obi against criticisms surrounding his political style, insisting that the former Labour Party presidential candidate does not engage in vote-buying or transactional politics often associated with Nigerian elections.
He also pointed to Obi’s record in Anambra State, noting that the former governor left behind substantial financial savings and investments while completing his tenure.
The comments come amid worsening tensions between Obi and Okonkwo, who was once one of the most visible spokespersons during Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign under the Labour Party.
Okonkwo later distanced himself from Obi and the Labour Party leadership following internal disputes, political disagreements, and wider divisions within the opposition movement after the 2023 elections.
Political observers say the growing rift reflects broader fragmentation within opposition politics as parties and political actors reposition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Obi, who has since been linked to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), continues to command strong support among members of the Obidient Movement and sections of Nigeria’s youth population.
However, former allies and critics have increasingly questioned his political strategy, coalition decisions, and future electoral prospects.
Analysts note that the public disagreements among former opposition allies could influence ongoing coalition-building efforts and shape perceptions of unity within emerging political movements.
Despite the criticisms, Obi’s supporters continue to defend his leadership style, frequently citing his record on fiscal discipline, governance reforms, and social investment during his time as governor of Anambra State.
As political realignments continue across Nigeria, the exchanges between key opposition figures such as Umeh, Okonkwo, and Obi highlight the growing intensity of debates over leadership, strategy, and the future direction of opposition politics ahead of 2027.
