Obi says south-east cannot be ‘captured’ despite wave of defections

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, says the wave of defections by some governors in the south-east does not translate to political control of the region.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, Obi said Nigeria is operating a democracy, not a military regime where states can be “captured”.

The former Anambra governor added that power rests with the people and not governors or senators.

“The people will decide where to go, not governors or senators. No party will capture or win any state just because it has a governor,” Obi said in reaction to the recent wave of defections.

On the defection of Peter Mbah, governor of Enugu, to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Obi said, “Peter Mbah is a good friend of mine. I believe that as governor, he made his decision based on his own political views and calculations.”

“As for the alleged plan to capture the south-east, we’re not in a military era when people are captured,” he added.

“You are a leader. You tend to do the right things for them to follow you. So, I don’t think anybody is capturing anywhere.

“The government just needs to do more to earn people’s support.”

Critics have expressed fear that the wave of defections by governors and lawmakers to the APC could tilt the country towards a one-party dominance ahead of the 2027 elections.

‘NNAMDI KANU’S ARREST NEEDLESS’

On the planned protest for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), by activist Omoyele Sowore, Obi said there was “never a need to arrest Kanu in the first place”.

“I’ve always been consistent on Nnamdi Kanu’s situation,” he said.

“There was no need for his arrest in the first place. For me, I will consult, negotiate, and discuss with anybody who is agitating. I’ve always said that, and I still stand by it.”

He said issues surrounding agitation should be handled through dialogue and adherence to the rule of law.

“Now that it has gone to court, the rules should be followed — not just for Nnamdi Kanu, but for all agitators across the country,” he said.

“There’s nothing wrong with anyone agitating; let’s talk with them and do things according to the law.”

Obi commended those pushing for Kanu’s release, saying their efforts align with what he has long advocated.

On the appointment of Joash Amupitan as the new chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), he said Nigerians expect free, fair, and credible elections in 2027.

“He’s a Nigerian, and we all want a new Nigeria where elections are credible,” Obi said.

“Those with competence, capacity, compassion, character, and commitment should be elected.

“When he’s confirmed, I’ll congratulate him and remind him that one day, he’ll leave that office. He should protect his integrity.”