Labour Party Chieftain Arabambi Backs Tinubu’s Re-Election, Rules Out Peter Obi’s Return

Party faction signals political realignment amid lingering internal crisis.

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By John Ishaku | Abuja, Nigeria

A senior figure in the Labour Party has declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid, while ruling out any possibility of the party’s former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, returning to its fold.

The statement underscores deepening divisions within the party and signals a potential political realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Labour Party National Vice Chairman (South-West), Oluwafemi Abayomi Arabambi, said the party has resolved to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid, citing internal consensus among key stakeholders.

Speaking during an interview on News Central, Arabambi dismissed speculation that Peter Obi could return to the party, describing such a move as “impossible” given the current internal dynamics.

He said the party’s leadership had agreed to align with Tinubu while continuing to support its elected officials across various levels of government.

According to him, the decision followed prolonged internal disputes within the party, which he said necessitated a strategic political repositioning.

Arabambi also took aim at the factional leadership led by Nenadi Usman, accusing her of pushing for Obi’s return for personal and political reasons.

He alleged that efforts to reintegrate Obi into the party were being driven by individuals closely associated with his previous presidential campaign.

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The Labour Party chieftain further argued that Obi’s past involvement contributed to the party’s internal crisis, questioning the viability of any renewed presidential ambition under its platform.

He also expressed doubt over Obi’s prospects in other political parties, suggesting structural and procedural challenges could limit his chances.

Arabambi maintained that the party’s national leadership, including the Julius Abure-led National Working Committee, had reached an understanding to back Tinubu’s second term.

He framed the decision within the context of regional power dynamics, insisting that the presidency should remain in the South-West for a full eight-year cycle.

The position, however, contrasts with broader calls for rotational equity across the southern region.

The statement reflects significant fragmentation within the Labour Party and highlights early political maneuvering ahead of 2027. If sustained, such alignment could reshape opposition dynamics and influence electoral coalitions at the national level.