Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has refuted claims linking him to the All Progressives Congress (APC), stressing that he is neither a member of the ruling party nor has any intention of joining.
Obi’s reaction followed a social media report suggesting that his name was mentioned at an APC gathering on Saturday. Dismissing the speculation, he stated, “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. 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.”
The former Anambra State governor reiterated his political stance, emphasizing 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,” he added.
Obi further advised that elections and primaries should not be reduced to toxic narratives or personal attacks. He emphasized that political choices must be guided by credibility, vision, and the ability to deliver real change, rather than by blackmail or unnecessary controversies.
Addressing the political future of Valentine Ozigbo, a former Labour Party governorship aspirant in Anambra State, Obi maintained that Ozigbo, like all other aspirants, should be evaluated based on leadership qualities rather than partisan sentiments.
“Primaries, whether conducted through voting, interviews, selection processes, or any other democratic method, must be free, fair, and credible. Every aspirant who is a legitimate member of a party deserves a fair chance to contest without bias or blackmail,” he stated.
With the Anambra governorship election set for November, Obi urged all political parties, including his own, to ensure a transparent and democratic process. He described the upcoming election as a crucial opportunity for Nigeria to embrace genuine democracy, which he noted remains elusive.
“I wish all political parties success in conducting free and fair primaries, and I call on all stakeholders to uphold justice throughout the process. 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,” he concluded.
