The All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, alleging that he lacks the capacity to build and sustain a political party.
The criticism was made by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today. Morka accused Obi of being a “serial defector,” claiming that the former Anambra State governor has a history of moving between political parties in search of favourable opportunities.
According to Morka, Obi is primarily focused on securing a presidential ticket rather than contributing to the long-term development of a political platform. He alleged that Obi prefers to align with parties where he can emerge as a candidate without facing significant internal competition.
“Peter Obi was with the Labour Party candidate in 2023, the same thing is happening; Obi is perpetually shopping for a party where he can clinch tickets uncontested,” Morka said.
He further argued that Obi is not interested in the organisational demands required to build a viable political structure, insisting that his approach to politics is centred on contesting elections rather than strengthening party institutions.
“He does not want to build a party, he cannot build a party, he is not interested in building a party. His own is to simply search around, snatch a ticket to run the presidential election,” Morka added.
The APC spokesperson also directed criticism at opposition coalition efforts, particularly involving the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He accused Obi and other coalition figures of attempting to take control of the party without adhering to due process.
According to Morka, the ADC has been subjected to what he described as a “hijack” by opposition actors who failed to respect the party’s internal constitution and established leadership structure.
“You know, the ADC itself was a victim of the hijack of these same people without reference to their constitution, without reference to the rule of law, without even reference to sheer decorum to sort things out with those who were in leadership within the party,” he stated.
Morka further commented on recent opposition activities, including the Ibadan Opposition Summit, noting that such gatherings do not pose a significant concern to the ruling party. However, he criticised remarks allegedly made at the event, particularly those attributed to Seyi Makinde.
He condemned what he described as a threat of violence issued during the summit, warning that political discourse should remain peaceful and within the bounds of democratic engagement.
While the APC maintains that opposition alignments and coalition-building efforts are unlikely to threaten its position, the remarks reflect increasing political tension as stakeholders begin to position themselves ahead of future elections.
As of the time of reporting, Peter Obi has not publicly responded to the allegations made by the APC spokesperson. Political observers note that such exchanges are expected to intensify as parties and aspirants prepare for upcoming electoral contests.
The development underscores the growing rivalry between the ruling party and opposition figures, particularly as discussions around coalition-building and political realignment continue to shape Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
