Yunusa Tanko, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, has firmly denied recent rumors suggesting that former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, has defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Tanko, speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief program, dismissed these claims as unfounded and reiterated that Obi remains a committed member of the Labour Party (LP).
“There is no truth to the speculation that Peter Obi has joined the SDP,” Tanko stated, adding that Obi’s affiliation with the Labour Party remains intact. He also revealed that the leadership of the party would be holding a meeting soon to clarify its stance in light of the recent Supreme Court ruling that removed Julius Abure as the national chairman of the party. “This meeting will address the matter and put everything to rest,” Tanko confirmed.
The clarification comes after statements by Adewole Adebayo, the former SDP presidential candidate, who claimed that Obi, alongside former PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, was in discussions with the SDP regarding a potential defection. Tanko, however, emphasized that until any official announcement is made, Obi’s status within the Labour Party remains unchanged.
“As far as I am concerned, His Excellency Peter Obi is a member of the Labour Party, and that will remain so unless something else arises,” Tanko added, highlighting the ongoing uncertainty within the party following the Supreme Court decision.
The speculation surrounding Obi’s political future has stirred significant interest, particularly as both Obi and Atiku were major opposition figures in the 2023 presidential race. Tanko’s statements seek to quell any confusion regarding Obi’s political affiliations, with a promise of further clarity from Labour Party leadership in the near future.
