Clarifies Viral Reports, Calls for Integrity in Nigerian Politics
Former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly refuted claims suggesting that he has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) or has any intention of joining the ruling party.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, made this known through a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on March 29, 2025, in response to a viral report linking him to an APC gathering.
Obi Dismisses Allegations of APC Defection
Reacting to the speculations making rounds on social media, Obi categorically distanced himself from any association with the APC and reaffirmed his commitment to transparent, fair, and issue-based politics.
In his statement, Obi said:
“I have come across a report circulating on social media regarding an APC gathering where my name was mentioned.”
“Let me make it unequivocally clear: I do not engage in toxic politics, blackmail, or any form of political manipulation. My name should not be associated with such narratives.”
Obi further dismissed any rumors of aligning with the APC and stated that he does not intend to defect now or in the future.
Obi’s Commitment to Integrity and Fair Politics
The former presidential candidate emphasized that his approach to politics has always been based on fairness, integrity, and competence.
“For the avoidance of doubt, both now and in the future, I am not a member of the APC, nor am I an intending member. My stance on politics has always been rooted in integrity, fairness, and issue-based engagement.”
“I firmly believe that all political parties should assess aspirants solely on their competence, capacity, and compassion — qualities essential for building a better Anambra and a better Nigeria.”
His statement reflects his continued advocacy for a political system based on merit, rather than personal or partisan interests.
On Valentine Ozigbo’s Political Move
Obi also addressed the political future of Valentine Ozigbo, a former PDP governorship candidate who has recently been rumored to be making political realignments.
“As for Valentine Ozigbo, I maintain that he, like every other aspirant, should be evaluated based on these key leadership qualities in his new political party.”
Obi’s remarks suggest that he believes political affiliations should not overshadow leadership capabilities, and he remains open to supporting competent individuals regardless of party affiliation.
Obi’s Call for Free and Fair Primaries
Reaffirming his belief in democracy and fair political processes, Obi urged all political parties to conduct transparent and credible primaries.
“I wish all political parties the very best in conducting free and fair primaries, and I call on all stakeholders to uphold justice throughout the process.”
He also cautioned against the growing culture of toxic politics, misinformation, and blackmail in Nigeria’s political landscape, stressing that such practices hinder true democratic progress.
“We must reject toxic politics, for that is the only path to achieving the democratic nation we currently lack. By doing so, we will move closer to the new Nigeria we seek.”
The Bigger Picture: What’s Next for Peter Obi?
Peter Obi remains one of Nigeria’s most influential political figures, especially after his impressive performance in the 2023 presidential elections, where he finished third behind Bola Tinubu and Atiku Abubakar.
Although rumors of his potential defection continue to circulate, Obi has remained firmly committed to the principles that define his political ideology:
🔹 Issue-based politics over party loyalty
🔹 Competence, capacity, and compassion as leadership benchmarks
🔹 A transparent and accountable governance system
🔹 Rejecting toxic political narratives and misinformation
With 2027 fast approaching, political observers are keen to see what Obi’s next move will be.
Read also: Cross River PDP’s Ex-Deputy Guber Candidate, Emana Duke Ambroose-Amawhe, Resigns from Party
Will he:
🔹 Remain with Labour Party and rebuild ahead of the next elections?
🔹 Form a new political movement that aligns with his vision?
🔹 Support a coalition to challenge the dominance of APC and PDP?
Only time will tell, but for now, one thing is clear—Peter Obi is not joining the APC, and he remains steadfast in his mission to build a new Nigeria.
Key Takeaways:
📌 Peter Obi has denied reports linking him to APC, stating that he remains independent of toxic politics.
📌 He reiterated his commitment to integrity, issue-based leadership, and fair politics.
📌 Obi urged political parties to prioritize competence over partisan affiliations.
📌 He called for free and fair primaries ahead of the next election cycle.
📌 His next political move remains a subject of speculation as 2027 approaches.