A prominent figure in Nigerian politics, Doyin Okupe, has severed ties with the Labour Party (LP), leaving a question mark over his future political allegiances.
In a letter shared on Monday, Doyin Okupe cited “ideological differences” as the driving force behind his resignation, thanking the party leadership for their support during his brief tenure.
Okupe’s departure comes after a year of whirlwind political movement. Alongside LP presidential candidate Peter Obi, he decamped from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, seeking a “Special Purpose Vehicle” to launch their campaign.
The Labour Party, under the leadership of Julius Abure, welcomed them with open arms, providing a platform for their unexpected presidential bid.
However, the honeymoon appears to be over for Okupe. His resignation letter hints at a growing disconnect between his own political philosophies and those espoused by the LP.
While the specific nature of these differences remains unclear, Okupe’s departure undoubtedly throws a wrench into the party’s post-election trajectory.
The letter reads, “I submit herewith my letter of resignation from the Labour Party with effect from today. You will recall that our flagbearer, Mr Peter Obi, myself and others left the PDP abruptly and had to look for a Special Purpose Vehicle in which to contest the 2023 Presidential Elections,” he wrote.
“The Labour Party, your good self and other members of your executives provided us with this veritable platform with no burdensomeness whatsoever and for which we were extremely grateful.”
