By Muhammad Mamman
Nigeria’s Labour Party (LP) has formally affirmed Abia State Governor Alex Otti as its national leader, marking a significant shift in the party’s leadership structure following the exit of its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
In a statement released on Monday, the party said it respected Obi’s decision to align with the coalition African Democratic Congress (ADC) and wished him well in his future political engagements.
The LP described Otti’s emergence as national leader as a step aimed at strengthening internal cohesion and providing clear direction as the party recalibrates ahead of future elections. Party officials said Otti, the only sitting governor elected on the LP platform, brings administrative experience and electoral credibility to the role.
“Governor Alex Otti remains a unifying figure and the most senior elected official of the party,” the statement said, adding that his leadership would help consolidate the LP’s structures nationwide.
Peter Obi, a former Anambra State governor, was the Labour Party’s flagbearer in the 2023 presidential election, where he galvanised a large youth following and reshaped Nigeria’s political conversation despite not winning the poll. His decision to join the ADC coalition has fuelled speculation about evolving opposition alliances ahead of the next general elections.
While acknowledging Obi’s contributions to the party’s growth, the LP said its focus now was on rebuilding and repositioning under Otti’s leadership.
Nigeria’s opposition landscape has remained fluid since the 2023 elections, with parties and political heavyweights exploring coalitions and realignments to challenge the ruling party in future contests.
